Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Recipe

Introduction

Baked apples stuffed with a savory-sweet mixture of feta, honey, and cranberries make a delightful dessert or snack. This easy recipe combines tender baked fruit with tangy cheese and a touch of warmth from cinnamon for a unique and comforting treat.

Ingredients

• 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)
• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Step 2: Carefully core each apple, leaving about ½ inch intact at the bottom to hold the filling.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the crumbled feta, dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir until evenly mixed.
4. Step 4: Place the cored apples in the baking dish and stuff each apple with the feta mixture, pressing gently to fill.
5. Step 5: Drizzle honey over each stuffed apple, then place a small pat of butter on top of each one.
6. Step 6: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Step 7: Remove the foil and bake the apples uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to brown the tops.
8. Step 8: Let the baked apples cool slightly, then sprinkle with chopped fresh mint if desired. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the filling for extra crunch.
• If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Experiment with apple varieties—Granny Smith apples offer a tart contrast, while Fuji apples add extra sweetness.
• To add a spicy note, sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves into the filling mix.

Storage

Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low oven until warmed through for best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the apples ahead of time?

Yes, you can stuff the apples and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just bring them to room temperature before placing them in the oven for even cooking.

What if I don’t have fresh mint for garnish?

Fresh mint adds a bright touch, but it’s optional. You can skip it or substitute with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a light dusting of powdered cinnamon for presentation.

Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 61 reviews

• Author: Mariam
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightfully warm and comforting baked apples stuffed with a savory-sweet mixture of crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, honey, and fragrant cinnamon. This easy dessert blends soft baked fruit with creamy cheese and a hint of vanilla, finished with a buttery golden top and optional fresh mint garnish. Perfect for a cozy treat or elegant autumn dessert.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Apples

• 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)

Filling

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• ¼ cup dried cranberries
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping and Garnish

• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prepare for baking the apples.
2. Core the apples: Carefully core each apple, ensuring you leave about ½ inch intact at the bottom so the filling stays inside during baking.
3. Mix the filling: In a small bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
4. Stuff the apples: Place the cored apples upright in the prepared baking dish. Gently stuff each apple cavity with the feta mixture, pressing lightly to fill completely.
5. Add honey and butter: Drizzle honey evenly over each stuffed apple. Then place a small pat of unsalted butter on top of each apple to enhance flavor and promote browning.
6. Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent drying and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples become tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Brown and finish: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. This step allows the tops to become a beautiful golden brown and slightly caramelized.
8. Garnish and serve: Let the baked apples cool slightly before sprinkling with chopped fresh mint, if desired. Serve them warm for the best flavor experience.

Notes

• Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp or Gala to maintain shape during baking.
• If you prefer a less sweet dessert, adjust the honey amount or omit it entirely.
• Fresh mint adds a refreshing contrast but can be omitted if unavailable.
• These baked apples can be served as a dessert or a sweet breakfast option.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and gently reheated before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked apples, feta cheese, honey, cranberries, cinnamon, fall dessert, vegetarian dessert