“Baked” apples have long been a thrifty American comfort dessert, especially popular in apple-growing regions of the Northeast. This speedy microwave version keeps the cozy spirit of the classic while trimming the cook time to minutes. Tart-sweet apples are cored, leaving the base intact, then packed with a warm mix of brown sugar, raisins, chopped pecans, cinnamon, and nutmeg. A small pat of butter melts into the fruit as it cooks, creating a lightly spiced syrup that pools in the center and dribbles down the sides. It’s a simple, small-batch treat perfect for fall evenings or whenever you want a nostalgic dessert without turning on the oven. Serve warm as-is, or add yogurt, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for an old-fashioned diner finish.
Ingredients
- 2 apples (medium, Northern Spy, Cortland, or Golden Delicious)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp raisins
- 1 tbsp pecans (chopped )
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp butter (about 1 tsp per apple)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Apples
- Core each apple, stopping before you pierce the bottom so the filling won’t leak.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
- In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, raisins, pecans, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
Step 3: Fill & Top
- Spoon the mixture evenly into the apples. Place 1 tsp butter on top of each filled apple.
Step 4: Cook
- Set apples in a deep microwave-safe casserole. Cover (microwave-safe lid or vented plastic wrap). Microwave on HIGH for 3–4 minutes, until apples are tender when pierced.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
- Let stand 2 minutes to finish steaming. Spoon any syrup over the apples and serve warm.
Tips
- Swap nuts: walnuts or almonds work in place of pecans; for nut-free, use oats or granola.
- Sweetener options: try maple syrup or honey mixed with the sugar.
- Add flavor: a splash of vanilla or a pinch of salt brightens the filling.
- Make it dairy-free/vegan: use coconut oil or vegan butter.
- Oven method: bake covered at 350°F/175°C for 25–30 minutes.
- Extra cozy: add a dollop of yogurt, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream.
- Prevent tipping: trim a thin slice off the apple bottoms so they stand upright.
- Batch for a crowd: scale up and increase microwave time in 30-second bursts.
Nutrition
Calories: 190kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 1.1gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 7.6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4.3gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 38mgPotassium: 245mgFiber: 5gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 225IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 18mgIron: 0.5mg
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