Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

March 13, 2025

Updated:

March 13, 2025

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Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries is a delightful dish that offers a unique twist on traditional dessert. Imagine biting into a warm, tender apple filled with creamy feta, tart cranberries, and a drizzle of sweet honey. Doesn’t it sound divine? This recipe perfectly marries the sweet and savory flavors that we all love, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering with friends or preparing a special meal for your family, these baked apples are sure to impress. Plus, it’s an easy dessert that doesn’t require fancy skills or equipment. Just a few ingredients, some time in the oven, and you’ll have a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds. Let’s get started!

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Why This Recipe Works
Why You’ll Love This Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
Ingredients
Preparation
Preheat the Oven
Prepare the Filling
Stuff the Apples
Bake the Apples
Garnish and Serve
Serving Suggestions
Tips for Success
Variations
Storage Tips
Pairing Ideas
FAQs
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Why This Recipe Works

This recipe proves that simple ingredients can create an exceptional dish. The combination of sweet and savory flavors—crunchy apples paired with creamy feta, tart cranberries, and a hint of honey—results in a culinary experience that delights the palate. The comforting aroma as these baked apples cook in the oven makes this dish perfect for cozy gatherings or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Not only is this baked apples recipe easy to prepare, but it also offers a unique twist on traditional desserts. By incorporating feta cheese and cranberries, it infuses an unexpected burst of flavor that sets it apart from other sweet treats, catering to those who love savory dishes and those who adore sweets. The combination tantalizes your taste buds and welcomes compliments from your guests.

Ingredients

4 large apples (Honeycrisp or Gala recommended), cored
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/4 cup chopped pears (optional, for extra sweetness)
2 tbsp honey, plus extra for drizzling
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for a savory touch)

Preparation

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s essential to grease a baking dish that can comfortably hold the apples. This step is simple but crucial for ensuring the baked apples don’t stick.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, optional chopped pears, honey, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir until well-mixed, ensuring that the honey and spices evenly coat all the ingredients. This harmony of flavors will make your baked apples truly special.

Stuff the Apples

Next, place each cored apple upright in the greased baking dish. Use a spoon to fill each apple generously with the feta and cranberry mixture, pressing gently to pack the filling tightly. This step is where the magic begins, so don’t hold back!

Bake the Apples

Cover the baking dish with foil to retain moisture and bake for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the apples are tender to the touch and the filling is slightly caramelized on top. The transformation is sure to invite delicious smells throughout your kitchen.

Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Drizzle each apple with a bit more honey and sprinkle with fresh rosemary or thyme for an added pop of flavor and color. Serve warm for the best taste experience. Your guests won’t believe how fantastic this dish tastes!

Serving Suggestions

Pair these baked apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. They also make a delightful breakfast option alongside Greek yogurt. The versatility of this dish allows it to shine at any meal, be it breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Tips for Success

Select apples that are firm to hold their shape during baking. A good apple makes all the difference!
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or nuts for varied flavors and textures. Variety can spice up your dish.
For a deeper flavor, let the stuffed apples sit for about 10 minutes before baking. This allows the spices to meld beautifully.

Variations

You can easily add your own spin to the recipe. Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a tangier taste. You might also add chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch. Consider experimenting with different dried fruits, like raisins or apricots, to discover your favorite flavor combination.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven for a warm, satisfying treat. The flavors will still shine!

Pairing Ideas

These baked apples pair beautifully with a chilled glass of Riesling or a warm cup of spiced cider. These beverages make them perfect for autumn gatherings or holiday dinners, enhancing the overall dining experience.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, feel free to explore any apple variety that you prefer. However, keep in mind that the texture and sweetness level may vary depending on your choice.

Is it possible to prepare these apples ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apples and filling in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready, simply assemble and bake.

Can I make these baked apples vegan?
Definitely! Substitute the feta with vegan cheese or omit it entirely while adding more nuts and dried fruit for flavor.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?
To prevent them from browning while you prepare the filling, lightly coat the cored apples with lemon juice. This tip is simple and effective!

What should I serve with baked apples?
They make a lovely stand-alone dessert, but you can also pair them with ice cream or yogurt, or even include them in a salad for an interesting twist.

Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries offer a heartwarming blend of flavors that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. This versatile dish is easy to modify based on your preferences and is an appealing addition to any meal. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy an inspiring culinary experience, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy creating this dish and revel in the joy it brings to your table!

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