Description
Baked Apples with Blue Cheese, Pecans, and Caramel
Ingredients:
4 medium-sized apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji preferred)
1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
1/4 cup pecans, chopped
1/4 cup caramel sauce
4 sprigs fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
.
Slice off the tops of the apples and core them carefully, leaving the base intact.
2. Stuff the Apples:
Fill each apple with a mixture of blue cheese and chopped pecans.
3. Bake:
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
4. Add Caramel:
Drizzle the warm apples with caramel sauce immediately after baking
.
5. Serve:
Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an earthy touch
. Serve warm as a dessert or a sweet-savory appetizer.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect baked apples every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and select a baking dish just large enough to hold your apples snugly. Wash and dry your apples. Using a sharp paring knife or an apple corer, slice off the top 1/2 inch of each apple. Carefully core the apples, removing all seeds and creating a well about 1 inch wide, but be sure not to puncture the bottom. This creates a sturdy cup for the filling. In a small bowl, combine the crumbled blue cheese and chopped pecans. Evenly divide this mixture, packing it gently into each apple cavity. Place the stuffed apples in the prepared dish. Bake on the center rack for 20-25 minutes. The apples are done when they are easily pierced with a fork but have not collapsed. Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle generously with caramel sauce, allowing it to seep into the filling. Garnish and serve.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be adapted for various occasions. For an elegant dessert, serve each apple warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. As a sophisticated appetizer, present a halved or quartered baked apple on a platter with endive leaves or crostini for scooping. For a brunch side, pair it with roasted pork or ham. A drizzle of aged balsamic glaze alongside the caramel can add a wonderful tangy contrast.
How-to Summary
Core apples, fill with blue cheese and pecan mixture, bake at 375°F until tender (20-25 mins), finish with a warm caramel drizzle, and garnish with thyme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can core and stuff the apples up to 4 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator, then add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What are good substitutes for blue cheese? For a milder flavor, try Gorgonzola Dolce or a sharp white cheddar. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan cheese alternative or extra toasted pecans.
How do I prevent the apples from bursting? Ensure you do not over-core and puncture the bottom. Baking at the correct temperature and checking for tenderness at 20 minutes is key.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce? Absolutely. A good-quality jarred caramel sauce works perfectly. Warm it slightly before drizzling for better flow.
What other apple varieties work well? Choose firm, sweet-tart apples that hold their shape. Granny Smith (for a tarter result), Braeburn, or Pink Lady are excellent alternatives.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using overly soft apples: They will turn to mush. Always choose firm, fresh apples.
- Puncturing the apple base: This causes filling and juices to leak out, creating a mess.
- Overbaking: This leads to collapsed apples. Check early and aim for tender-but-holding shape.
- Adding caramel before baking: This will cause it to burn. Always add the caramel sauce after baking.
- Not toasting the pecans: For maximum flavor, toast the pecans in a dry pan for a few minutes before chopping and mixing.
Conclusion
Baked Apples with Blue Cheese, Pecans, and Caramel is a deceptively simple dish that delivers complex, crowd-pleasing flavors. The harmony of sweet, savory, tangy, and crunchy elements makes it a memorable choice for everything from a weeknight treat to a dinner party finale. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this elegant, rustic recipe. Experiment with the serving suggestions to make it your own, and prepare to receive compliments on this perfect autumnal creation.