Jamie Oliver’s Baked Apple Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting dessert that’s packed with natural sweetness and simplicity, Jamie Oliver’s Baked Apple is a delightful choice. It’s a perfect blend of easy-to-make, nutritious, and delicious that appeals to both kids and adults.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Baked Apple

Jamie Oliver’s Baked Apple is a wholesome dessert that transforms a basic apple into a soft, juicy treat with a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. The apple is cored and filled with ingredients like sugar, cinnamon, and butter before being baked to perfection.

The result is a comforting, tender fruit that can be served on its own or with accompaniments like yogurt, cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a simple, rustic dessert that exudes warmth, ideal for cozy evenings or as an easy-to-prepare treat for guests.

Jamie Oliver’s Baked Apple Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a list of what you’ll need to create Jamie Oliver’s Baked Apple:

• 4 large apples: Choose a variety that holds up well during baking, such as Bramley or Gala.
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the filling.
• 3 tablespoons of brown sugar: For sweetness and a hint of caramelization.
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• A pinch of ground nutmeg: This enhances the spiced flavor profile.
• Optional add-ins: You could include raisins, chopped nuts, or a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor complexity.
• Honey or maple syrup (optional for drizzling after baking).

Equipment Needed

To make this simple but satisfying dessert, you’ll need the following tools:

• Baking dish: A shallow dish or roasting tray large enough to hold your apples comfortably.
• Knife and spoon: To core the apples and carve out a space for the filling.
• Measuring spoons: For accuracy in adding the spices and sugar.
• Oven: The apples need to bake, so preheating the oven is key to achieving the perfect texture.
• Aluminum foil (optional): You can use it to cover the apples during the first part of baking to ensure they cook evenly and retain moisture.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Baked Apple?

Here’s how you can make this delightful dessert:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Prepare the apples: Core the apples using an apple corer or a small knife, leaving the bottom intact so that the filling doesn’t leak out. Create a small cavity in the center of each apple.
3. Make the filling: In a small bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir them together until the butter is softened and everything is well mixed.
4. Fill the apples: Spoon the mixture into the center of each apple, packing it in slightly. You can also add raisins or chopped nuts at this stage if you want extra texture.
5. Place the apples in the baking dish: Arrange the stuffed apples in a shallow baking dish. Add a splash of water or apple juice to the bottom of the dish to help the apples cook and stay moist.
6. Cover and bake: Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are soft and cooked through. You can check doneness by gently poking the apples with a fork – they should be tender.
7. Serve: Once baked, serve the apples warm. You can drizzle them with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness, or top them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat.

Expert Tips

• Choose the right apple: The best apples for baking are those that hold their shape and aren’t too juicy. Varieties like Braeburn, Granny Smith, or Honeycrisp work well because they balance sweetness and tartness and won’t fall apart when baked.
• Add texture: Feel free to include chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy contrast. You could even add a few raisins or cranberries for an added burst of flavor.
• Check on the apples: Different types of apples bake at different rates, so make sure to check them halfway through. If they’re getting too soft or brown, you can reduce the heat slightly or cover them with foil for the remainder of the cooking time.
• For extra flavor: A splash of vanilla extract or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can enhance the flavor of the baked apples, making them even more aromatic.
• Serve creatively: Pair the baked apples with a dollop of whipped cream, custard, or a scoop of ice cream to add richness and balance the spiced flavors.

Jamie Oliver’s Baked Apple is an elegant yet simple dessert that’s full of flavor and comfort. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a warm, delightful treat that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re serving it as a light dessert after dinner or treating yourself to something sweet, these baked apples are a satisfying, healthy choice that highlights the natural sweetness of fruit.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Baked Apple

Jamie Oliver’s baked apple recipe is a simple, wholesome dessert that’s perfect for cozying up on chilly nights or serving as a sweet end to a meal. However, the beauty of this dish lies in how versatile it is – with just a few tweaks, you can transform it into several delightful variations. Here are some easy recipe variations to try:

1. Nutty Cinnamon Delight:
   If you love a little crunch in your dessert, sprinkle your apples with chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans. These add a wonderful texture and a rich, roasted flavor that complements the warm, spiced sweetness of the baked apple. Simply toss the nuts with cinnamon and brown sugar, then stuff them into the hollowed-out apples before baking.

2. Berry Infusion:
   For a fruitier twist, add a handful of mixed berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries to the core of the apple before baking. The juices from the berries will meld beautifully with the apple as it cooks, creating a deliciously tart contrast to the natural sweetness of the fruit.

3. Maple and Pecan Version:
   Swap out the traditional sugar for maple syrup to bring a deeper, more caramelized sweetness. Drizzle the syrup over the apples before baking and stuff with a generous amount of chopped pecans. The maple flavor pairs wonderfully with the pecans, creating a rich, satisfying dessert.

4. Apple Pie Spice Twist:
   If you’re a fan of apple pie but want a simplified version, use apple pie spice instead of just cinnamon. This blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice gives the baked apples a comforting, pie-like flavor. You could even crumble some shortcrust pastry over the apples during the last few minutes of baking for a mock apple pie experience.

5. Chocolate Lovers’ Delight:
   For a decadent, indulgent treat, add a piece of high-quality dark chocolate inside each apple before baking. The chocolate will melt and create a gooey, rich filling that pairs beautifully with the apple’s soft, tender flesh. For extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top before serving.

6. Vegan Version:
   Jamie Oliver’s original recipe includes butter, but if you’re following a vegan diet, you can easily substitute it with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based alternatives for any milk or cream-based additions. The baked apples will still be rich and flavorful with these adjustments.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Baked apples are one of those delightful treats that can be enjoyed later, provided they are stored properly. Here are the best practices to ensure your leftovers stay fresh and tasty:

1. Cool Down Before Storing:
   Allow your baked apples to cool completely before storing them. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which could make the apples soggy.

2. Airtight Containers:
   Store your baked apples in an airtight container to lock in moisture and preserve the flavor. If you’ve used a topping (like a crumb topping or nuts), consider storing it separately to prevent it from becoming soft.

3. Refrigeration:
   Refrigerating your leftover baked apples is the best option to keep them fresh for 3 to 4 days. Ensure they are stored at or below 40°F (4°C) to maintain food safety.

4. Freezing for Later:
   If you’d like to store them for longer, you can freeze baked apples. First, place the apples on a baking sheet and freeze them individually. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat in the oven or microwave.

5. Reheating Tips:
   When reheating baked apples, you can place them back in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, microwave them in short intervals, checking the temperature to avoid overcooking.

What Goes Well With Baked Apple?

Baked apples are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of complementary sides to elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great pairings:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream:
   The warm, spiced apples are the perfect foil for a scoop of cold, creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast of temperature and texture creates a satisfying experience.

2. Whipped Cream:
   Light, fluffy whipped cream adds a rich and indulgent touch to the baked apples. For an extra flair, you can flavor the cream with a bit of cinnamon or vanilla extract.

3. Caramel Sauce:
   Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your baked apples takes the dish to the next level. The smooth, buttery sauce adds a luxurious sweetness that pairs perfectly with the fruit.

4. Crumble or Granola:
   For some added crunch, sprinkle a crumble or granola over the baked apples before serving. It provides a delicious texture contrast and can be flavored with oats, brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon.

5. Yogurt:
   For a healthier twist, serve your baked apples with a dollop of Greek yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt balances the sweetness of the apples, creating a lighter but still satisfying dessert.

6. Cheese:
   If you’re craving a savory pairing, consider pairing your baked apple with a mild cheese like Brie or a sharp cheddar. The creaminess or sharpness of the cheese complements the sweetness and spiced flavor of the apples.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s baked apple recipe is a wonderfully versatile and easy-to-make dessert that can be customized to suit a variety of tastes. With simple variations like adding nuts, berries, or spices, you can create a new version each time you make the dish.

Proper storage practices ensure that leftovers stay fresh, allowing you to enjoy them for days to come. And when it comes to pairing, baked apples go wonderfully with a wide range of accompaniments, from ice cream to cheese, making it a dessert that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers, this sweet treat is always a winner.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Baked Apple Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s baked apple recipe typically includes Bramley or cooking apples, dried fruits like raisins or sultanas, mixed spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, brown sugar, butter, and sometimes nuts or a splash of brandy for extra flavor.

What Type Of Apples Does Jamie Oliver Recommend For Baking?

Jamie suggests using tart cooking apples like Bramley apples because they hold their shape well and balance the sweetness of the filling with a sharp bite.

How Long Does It Take To Bake The Apples?

The apples are usually baked in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until they are soft and cooked through but still hold their shape.

How Should The Apples Be Prepared Before Baking?

Each apple should be cored carefully to remove the seeds and make space for the filling. The skin can be left on. You can score around the middle of each apple to prevent them from bursting during baking.

What Kind Of Filling Does Jamie Oliver Use For Baked Apples?

The filling often includes a mix of dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, chopped nuts, brown sugar, spices (like cinnamon and allspice), and a knob of butter. You can customize it with oats or even a splash of brandy.

Can The Recipe Be Made Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the apples and filling in advance and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. However, for best texture, it’s ideal to bake them just before serving.

Are There Any Recommended Accompaniments To Serve With Baked Apples?

Jamie often recommends serving the baked apples with a generous dollop of vanilla ice cream, crème fraîche, or custard to complement the warm, spiced filling.

Is This Recipe Suitable For Vegetarians Or Vegans?

The recipe is vegetarian as written. To make it vegan, you can substitute plant-based butter and ensure the filling ingredients (like sugar and dried fruits) are vegan-friendly.

Can I Use Other Fruits Besides Apples In This Recipe?

While apples are the focus, you could try similar techniques with pears or quinces, though cooking times may vary. The core principle of stuffing fruit with a spiced filling remains the same.

What Tips Does Jamie Offer For Extra Flavor Or Texture?

Jamie sometimes suggests drizzling a bit of maple syrup or honey over the apples before baking for a caramelized finish, or sprinkling oats or granola over the top for crunch.