Indulge in the heartwarming comfort of these easy baked apples, infused with aromatic cinnamon and cooked to tender perfection. This delightful recipe transforms humble apples into a luxurious dessert that’s perfect on its own or elevated with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of creamy ice cream. Best of all, this recipe is a fantastic choice for everyone, being completely gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. Get ready to enjoy a guilt-free sweet treat that truly satisfies!

Embrace the Magic of Apple Season!

As the crisp air of fall sweeps in, bringing with it a vibrant bounty of apples, my kitchen transforms into a haven of sweet aromas and culinary creativity. Apple season is truly a magical time, offering an endless array of possibilities for both simple pleasures and elaborate confections.

From essential pantry staples like homemade apple pie filling, rich apple butter, refreshing apple cider, luscious caramelized apples, and comforting applesauce, to more sophisticated desserts, apples truly shine in every form. Imagine crafting impressive apple desserts such as a flaky apple crumble, an elegant apple galette, or a rustic apple crisp. Or perhaps you prefer baked goods like fluffy apple muffins, a tender apple cake, or hearty apple bread!

Amidst all these wonderful options, sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying. Today, we’re focusing on effortless baked apples. These are fantastic as a wholesome fall snack, a light breakfast, or a truly indulgent dessert when paired with a cloud of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They embody the essence of autumn in every tender bite.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Apple Recipe:

• Effortless and Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to scour specialty stores for obscure items. The handful of ingredients required for these simple baked apples are common pantry staples and readily available at any local grocery store. This makes whipping up a delicious dessert quick and stress-free!
• Incredibly Easy to Prepare: This recipe is a dream for busy weeknights or beginner bakers. Preparing these baked apples involves just a few straightforward steps: slicing apples, mixing them with a few flavorful additions, and baking until soft and fragrant. There are no complicated techniques or extensive prep times, making it a perfect go-to dessert.
• Dietary-Friendly & Inclusive: One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility and broad appeal. It’s 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. This means everyone can enjoy this scrumptious dessert without worry, whether they have Celiac disease, gluten or lactose intolerances, or follow a plant-based diet. It truly caters to a wide range of dietary needs without compromising on taste or texture.
• Amazing Flavor & Comforting Aroma: The combination of tender baked apples and warm spices like cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor profile that is both sweet and comforting. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with an inviting aroma that signifies fall and homemade goodness, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
• Highly Versatile Serving Options: These baked apples are delicious enough to be enjoyed on their own as a healthy snack, but they also serve as an excellent base for various toppings. Whether you prefer a luxurious scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of granola, or a drizzle of caramel, this dessert is incredibly adaptable to your cravings.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Baked Apples:

Here’s a visual overview of the simple yet crucial ingredients required for making these healthy baked apples. The quality of your ingredients can significantly enhance the final flavor, so opt for fresh, vibrant apples and fragrant spices whenever possible.

(For exact measurements and detailed instructions, please scroll down to the comprehensive printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.)

Recipe Notes & Expert Substitutions:

• Apples: The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can use virtually any type of fresh apple you prefer! For a sweeter dessert, opt for varieties like Fuji, Gala, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp. If you enjoy a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness, Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice. Each apple variety brings its own unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite. Softer apples will cook down more, while firmer ones will hold their shape better.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always recommended for the brightest, most vibrant flavor. It plays a dual role in this recipe: first, it helps prevent the sliced apples from browning too quickly, maintaining their appetizing appearance. Second, its natural acidity brightens and balances the sweetness of the apples and sugar, adding a delightful zing. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice will work perfectly fine.
• Dairy-Free Butter: To ensure this recipe remains completely dairy-free and vegan, I used a high-quality unsalted dairy-free butter. These alternatives have come a long way and offer a rich, buttery flavor and texture that mimics traditional butter beautifully. However, if you don’t have lactose intolerance or specific dietary restrictions, you can absolutely use regular unsalted butter instead.
• Brown Sugar: I’ve found light brown sugar provides the perfect caramel notes without overpowering the apples. For a deeper, richer molasses flavor, dark brown sugar is a great alternative. If you’re looking for an unrefined sugar option, coconut sugar can be used; it has a lovely caramel-like taste with a lower glycemic index. For those managing blood sugar levels, I highly recommend using granulated monk fruit sweetener. It’s a fantastic 1:1 substitute for brown sugar, boasts a zero glycemic index, and will not impact blood sugar levels, making it ideal for diabetic or insulin-resistant diets.
• Spices: The classic fall pairing of ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg creates a wonderfully warm and comforting flavor profile. These spices are synonymous with autumn and enhance the natural sweetness of the apples beautifully. For ultimate convenience, you can easily substitute the individual cinnamon and nutmeg with 1 3/4 teaspoons of a good quality apple pie spice blend. Feel free to add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for extra depth if you enjoy those warm flavors.
• Cornstarch: Cornstarch is a crucial ingredient here, acting as a thickening agent. As the apples cook, they release natural juices, and the cornstarch helps to thicken these juices into a luscious, syrupy sauce that coats every apple slice. Without it, your baked apples might be watery. If you have a corn allergy or prefer an alternative, tapioca starch or potato starch can be used as effective substitutes.
• Salt: A small amount of salt is often overlooked in sweet recipes, but it’s essential! It doesn’t make the dish salty; instead, it enhances and balances all the other flavors, making the apples taste even sweeter and the spices more prominent. Don’t skip it!

How to Make Easy Baked Apples (Step-by-Step Guide):

Crafting these delicious baked apples is incredibly simple. Follow these steps for tender, perfectly spiced apples every time:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take a large baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches or similar size) and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray or a bit of dairy-free butter. This step ensures your apples won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Peel, Core, and Slice Apples

Carefully peel your chosen apples. While peeling is optional, it results in a more uniformly tender texture. Next, remove the seeds and core using an apple corer or a melon baller. Once cored, cut the apples into thin, even slices, roughly 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Consistency in slice thickness is key for even cooking.

3. Combine Apples and Flavorings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with the lemon juice, melted dairy-free butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Use a spatula or your hands to mix everything thoroughly, ensuring every apple slice is generously coated with the flavorful spice mixture.

4. Prepare and Add Cornstarch Slurry

In a small separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 2-3 tablespoons of warm water until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and no lumps remain. This is called a “slurry,” and it’s essential for preventing lumps in your final sauce. Pour this cornstarch slurry into the bowl with the apples and mix well again, ensuring the thickening agent is evenly distributed.

5. Bake Covered for Initial Tenderness

Transfer the apple mixture evenly into your greased baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to steam the apples during the initial baking phase, ensuring they become wonderfully tender. Place the covered dish into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes.

6. Uncover and Finish Baking

After 25 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil. This allows the apples to brown slightly and the juices to thicken and caramelize, developing deeper flavors. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender and the sauce is bubbling and slightly thickened. If you prefer a darker caramelization, you can broil for the last few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

7. Cool, Serve, and Savor!

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the baked apple slices to cool slightly. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Serve these warm, spiced apples with your favorite toppings. A generous dollop of vegan whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream makes for an exquisite dessert. They’re also delightful with a sprinkle of chopped nuts, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a spoonful of plain dairy-free yogurt.

Dish by Dish Tips & Clever Tricks:

• Choosing Your Apples: While we covered this in the notes, remember that the type of apple greatly influences the final texture. For a balance of tart and sweet, combine varieties like Granny Smith with Fuji or Gala. Firmer apples generally hold their shape better during baking.
• Optimal Storage: To store any leftover baked apples, allow them to cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating Perfection: When reheating, you have a few options. For crispier edges, gently warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. If you’re short on time, the microwave works well, though the texture might be slightly softer.

Elevate Your Baked Apples: Serving Suggestions & Variations

• Beyond Whipped Cream: While classic, don’t stop there! Consider topping with a scoop of dairy-free coconut whipped cream, a generous swirl of vegan caramel sauce, a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts, or even a dollop of Greek-style dairy-free yogurt for a tangier contrast.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle some gluten-free granola, oat crumble (butter, flour, sugar), or chopped nuts over the apples before the final baking stage.
• Flavor Boosters: A splash of vanilla extract (added with other liquids), a pinch of ginger, or a tiny bit of cardamom can add even more depth to the spice blend.
• Fruit Medley: Experiment by adding other fruits like sliced pears or a handful of fresh cranberries for a beautiful color and tart flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

• Can I bake whole apples? Yes, you can! Core the apples, fill the cavity with the butter, sugar, and spice mixture, and bake. However, sliced apples cook faster and absorb the flavors more thoroughly, providing a different experience. Whole apples will require a longer baking time.
• Why are my baked apples watery or mushy? Watery apples usually mean either too much moisture released by the apples (some varieties are juicier) or not enough cornstarch. Mushy apples are typically overcooked. To avoid this, use slightly firmer apple varieties and stick to the recommended baking times, checking for tenderness with a fork.
• Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can slice and mix the apples with all ingredients (except the cornstarch slurry if you prefer, adding it just before baking) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, bake the apples completely, let them cool, and then refrigerate. Reheat as per storage instructions.
• Are these good for breakfast? Yes, they are! These baked apples make a fantastic healthy breakfast or brunch option, especially when served with plain dairy-free yogurt and a sprinkle of nuts or granola for added protein and fiber.

More Gluten-Free Apple Recipes to Savor:

• Crispy Apple Chips (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Creamy Apple Butter (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
• Apple Tart (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Applesauce Muffins (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Apple Crisp (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

Delicious Gluten-Free Desserts to Indulge In:

P.S. If you try this recipe, I’d love for you to leave a star rating below, and/or a review in the comment section further down the page. I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to check out my entire Recipe Index for all the recipes on the blog. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook or Instagram! Sign up for my Email List to get fresh recipes in your inbox each week!

Print

Easy Baked Apples (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

---

5 Stars







4 Stars







3 Stars







2 Stars







1 Star

5 from 1 review

• Author: Felicia Lim
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

These easy baked apples are flavored with cinnamon and cooked till tender, making a delicious dessert. Enjoy them on its own, or with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream – either way, these apples are delicious! Totally gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan too, making them perfect for almost any dietary need.

---

Ingredients

Scale

• 8 apples (any variety you prefer)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted dairy-free butter, melted (or regular unsalted butter if not dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (or dark brown sugar, coconut sugar, or granulated monkfruit sweetener)
• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/3 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or tapioca starch/potato starch)

Cook Mode
Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat and Grease: Preheat the oven to 350F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or dairy-free butter.
2. Peel and Slice Apples: Peel the apples, remove the seeds using an apple corer or a melon baller, and cut the apples into thin, even slices (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick).
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the lemon juice, melted butter, sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly with a spatula until the apples are well coated.
4. Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2-3 tablespoons of warm water until it has dissolved completely. Add this slurry to the bowl with the apples and mix well to combine.
5. Initial Bake (Covered): Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes to tenderize the apples.
6. Final Bake (Uncovered): Remove the foil and bake the apples for another 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened and caramelized slightly.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Let the baked apple slices cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, ice cream, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.

Notes

Apples: Feel free to use whichever type of fresh apples you prefer. Sweeter varieties like Fuji, Gala, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp work well, as do tart ones like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor.

Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds the best flavor and prevents browning. Bottled lemon juice can be used as an alternative.

Butter: For a dairy-free and vegan recipe, use unsalted dairy-free butter. If dietary restrictions are not a concern, regular unsalted butter works perfectly.

Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is recommended, but you can also use dark brown sugar or coconut sugar. For a zero-glycemic option, granulated monk fruit sweetener is an excellent 1:1 substitute.

Spices: The blend of ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg provides a classic fall flavor. You can replace these with 1 3/4 teaspoons of apple pie spice for convenience.

Cornstarch: This acts as a thickener for the apple juices, creating a delicious sauce. If you’re allergic to cornstarch, tapioca starch or potato starch are suitable substitutes.

Storage: Store cooled baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American