Baked Apples

Season: Fall or Winter
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings

These cozy baked apples are a simple, comforting treat that work just as well for dessert as they do for an afternoon snack. Warm, naturally sweet, and gently spiced, this recipe is perfect for cooking together. Kids get to measure, fill, and assemble, while adults handle the oven and any sharp tools. It’s low-stress, hands-on, and smells amazing while it bakes.

Safety Note: Children should use plastic or table knives for any steps that involve cutting or coring.

Ingredients

• 4 apples

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) butter

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 2 tablespoons (18 g) raisins

• 2 tablespoons (30 g) packed brown sugar or 1 tablespoon (15 ml) maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) crème fraîche or sour cream (optional, for serving)

Additional Equipment

• Baking dish large enough to hold the apples or microwave safe plate depending on whether you are baking them in the oven or cooking them in the microwave

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Adult: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C, or gas mark 4). Core the apples and place them upright in a baking dish.

Step 2: Add the Butter

Child: Measure the butter.*
Adult & Child: Divide the butter into 4 equal pieces.
Child: Place one piece of butter into the center of each apple.

Step 3: Add the Filling

Adult & Child:

• Measure the cinnamon and sprinkle it evenly inside each apple.*

• Measure the raisins and divide them evenly among the apples.*

• Measure the brown sugar or maple syrup and distribute it evenly into each apple.*

Step 4: Bake in Oven or Microwave

Oven:
Adult: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until the apples are very soft inside and the skins look shiny.

Microwave:
Adult: Place the microwave safe plate in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until tender.

Step 5: Serve

Adult: Remove from the oven and serve warm.
Adult & Child: Add a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream, if desired.

*Measuring ingredients can help children learn simple math concepts, like addition.