Description
In this recipe, classic baked apples meet the luxurious taste of creamy goat cheese and the sweet tang of dried cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Drizzled with honey and seasoned with fresh thyme, this dish offers a warm, comforting dessert or an elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress. Ideal for fall gatherings or a cozy night in, these Baked Apples with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Delight blend simplicity with gourmet flair.
Ingredients
- 4 firm apples, halved and cored
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Chopped walnuts for garnish
Step-by-step Directions
1. Preheating the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) to ensure it’s ready for the apples to bake evenly.
2. Preparing the Apples
Halve the apples and remove the cores, creating a well in the center of each half to hold the filling.
3. Arranging the Apples
Place the apple halves in a baking dish cut-side up. Drizzle them with olive oil to help caramelize the surface during baking.
4. Adding the Filling
Combine the crumbled goat cheese with chopped cranberries and fill the center of each apple half with this mixture.
5. Baking
Bake the apples in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. The apples should be tender and the cheese slightly melted.
6. Final Touches
After baking, drizzle the apples with honey and sprinkle fresh thyme over them. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
7. Optional Garnish
If using, top the baked apples with chopped walnuts for extra crunch and presentation.
Servings & Preparation Time
Serves: 4 people
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or oven until just warm. Avoid overheating to preserve the quality of the goat cheese.
- Freezing: It is best not to freeze this dish as the texture of the apples and goat cheese may be adversely affected.
Conclusion
This Baked Apples with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Delight recipe is an exquisite treat that brings together sweetness, savory notes, and a hint of herbs. It’s simple enough for a beginner cook yet sophisticated enough to serve at any special occasion or holiday dinner. Whether as a dessert or appetizer, these baked apples are sure to offer a heartwarming and delightful culinary experience.
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Baked Apples with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 people 1x
Description
In this recipe, classic baked apples meet the luxurious taste of creamy goat cheese and the sweet tang of dried cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Drizzled with honey and seasoned with fresh thyme, this dish offers a warm, comforting dessert or an elegant appetizer that’s sure to impress. Ideal for fall gatherings or a cozy night in, these Baked Apples with Creamy Goat Cheese and Cranberry Delight blend simplicity with gourmet flair.
Ingredients
- 4 firm apples, halved and cored
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Chopped walnuts for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F (190C) to ensure it’s ready for the apples to bake evenly.
- Halve the apples and remove the cores, creating a well in the center of each half to hold the filling.
- Place the apple halves in a baking dish cut-side up. Drizzle them with olive oil to help caramelize the surface during baking.
- Combine the crumbled goat cheese with chopped cranberries and fill the center of each apple half with this mixture.
- Bake the apples in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. The apples should be tender and the cheese slightly melted.
- After baking, drizzle the apples with honey and sprinkle fresh thyme over them. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- If using, top the baked apples with chopped walnuts for extra crunch and presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes