How to Bake Apples

The heavenly aroma of baked apples is matched only by the amazingly sweet, caramellike flavor of these easy treats. You can bake apples in four simple steps. We've also created a video on how to bake apples so you can ensure success.

Start by cutting a slice from the stem end of the apple. Using an apple corer or a melon baller, remove the apple core, leaving the basin intact so it can contain the filling. Then peel a strip around the top of each apple.

Editor's Tip: Be sure to choose a good baking apple variety, such as Braeburn, Jonagold, Granny Smith, or Jonathan. They hold up best during cooking. Look for them at the supermarket or your local apple orchard.

Place apples in a baking dish or in individual custard cups. (If necessary, remove a thin slice from the bottom of each apple so it sits flat.)

Spoon cooked fruit or favorite filling into centers of apples. Remember to poura a liquid such as apple juice, orange juice, or fruit nectar around apples to help soak up flavor during baking. Don't have juice? Water will do. See our baked apple recipes, below, if you need a jump start.

Bake until apples are tender (about 40 minutes at 350 degrees F), basting occasionally with juice or water from baking dish. Cool slightly. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream, if desired.

Try one of our baked apple recipes:

• Stuffed Apples
• Molasses-Fig Baked Apples
• Baked Apples with Feta and Thyme
• Roasted Late-Summer Apples