Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 large apples
- 1/2 cup pignolo (pine nuts)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Food processor
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the top of each apple and scoop out the core and seeds with a spoon. Make sure to leave the bottom intact.
3. In a food processor, pulse the pignolo until finely chopped.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pignolo, brown sugar, flour, melted butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
5. Stuff the mixture into the hollowed-out apples, pressing down firmly.
6. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 29g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pignolo (pine nuts) can be substituted with chopped almonds or walnuts.
- Brown sugar can be substituted with white sugar or honey.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with almond flour or gluten-free flour.
- Unsalted butter can be substituted with coconut oil or margarine.
Variations:
- Add raisins or dried cranberries to the pignolo mixture for added sweetness.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked apples before serving.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a sharp knife to cut off the top of the apples and scoop out the core.
- Press the pignolo mixture firmly into the apples to ensure it sticks.
- Serve the baked apples warm for the best flavor.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the baked apples in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked apples on a plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts.
Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot apple cider or a glass of red wine.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a mixed green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the pignolo crust is not sticking to the apples, try pressing it down harder or adding a little more melted butter to the mixture.
- If the apples are not tender after 30-35 minutes, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash the apples thoroughly before preparing them. Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before eating.
Food history:
Baked apples have been a popular dessert for centuries, dating back to medieval times. They were often stuffed with spices, nuts, and dried fruits and served as a sweet treat after meals.
Flavor profiles:
The pignolo crust adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the baked apples, while the cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and spice.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked apples as a dessert or a sweet snack. They are perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
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Taste: Sweet, Tart, Nutty, Spicy, Caramelized