These Sundae Apples offer a comforting, nostalgic dessert experience that balances sweet and tart flavors. The recipe features firm red apples baked until tender, then coated in a glossy, cinnamon-infused sugar glaze. For an extra indulgent touch, serve them with a homemade chocolate liqueur sauce made from melted chocolate, butter, and a splash of apple brandy. The addition of thin citrus slices adds a bright, zesty contrast to the rich sweetness. Perfect for cozy autumn evenings or as a special treat for family gatherings, this dish is simple to prepare using pantry staples. It provides a beautiful presentation with its vibrant red hue and decadent topping, making it a memorable way to end any meal.
Sundae Apples
Description
These Sundae Apples offer a comforting, nostalgic dessert experience that balances sweet and tart flavors. The recipe features firm red apples baked until tender, then coated in a glossy, cinnamon-infused sugar glaze. For an extra indulgent touch, serve them with a homemade chocolate liqueur sauce made from melted chocolate, butter, and a splash of apple brandy. The addition of thin citrus slices adds a bright, zesty contrast to the rich sweetness. Perfect for cozy autumn evenings or as a special treat for family gatherings, this dish is simple to prepare using pantry staples. It provides a beautiful presentation with its vibrant red hue and decadent topping, making it a memorable way to end any meal.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350F (175C).
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Wash the apples thoroughly and core them, leaving the bottoms intact so they hold together, but do not peel them.
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Cut each apple horizontally into 3 to 4 thick slices, keeping the core area if possible for structure, or simply slice into wedges if preferred.
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In a small saucepan, combine 3/4 cup sugar, 3/4 cup water, cinnamon, and red food coloring.
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Bring the sugar mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
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Place the apple slices in a baking dish and pour the cinnamon-sugar glaze over them.
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Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender but not mushy.
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While the apples bake, prepare the chocolate liqueur sauce.
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In a small saucepan, melt butter and unsweetened chocolate over low heat.
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Stir in 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water, heating gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
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Remove from heat and stir in apple brandy or creme de cacao.
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Arrange the baked apple slices on serving plates.
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Garnish with thin slices of lemon and orange.
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Drizzle the warm chocolate liqueur sauce over the apples just before serving.
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Serve immediately while warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 227.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.2g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.5mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 59.5g20%
- Dietary Fiber 2.7g11%
- Sugars 55.0g
- Protein 0.3g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Ensure apples are dried thoroughly before coring to help them hold their shape during baking.
If you prefer a stronger chocolate flavor, use semi-sweet chocolate instead of unsweetened.
The chocolate sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat gently before pouring.
For a vegan version, ensure the butter is substituted with vegan margarine and check that the chocolate contains no dairy.
Apple brandy adds a sophisticated depth; if unavailable, creme de cacao or even a splash of vanilla extract works well.