5-Ingredient Brown Sugar & Pecan Baked Apples

These Brown Sugar & Pecan Baked Apples are an easy way to turn a few simple ingredients into a cozy fall dessert. Sweet apples are baked until tender with brown sugar, warm cinnamon, and crunchy pecans for a dessert that feels special without requiring much time or effort.

Apples bring fiber, vitamins, minerals, and natural sweetness to the recipe, while pecans add healthy unsaturated fats, a little protein, and even more satisfying crunch. It’s a great example of how adding nourishing ingredients can complement a dessert without taking away from the enjoyment.

With just five main ingredients, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight treat but cozy enough to serve at a fall gathering. Enjoy them on their own, or top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for an extra creamy finish. There’s no need to overthink dessert, sometimes simple is best!

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total time: 60 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 large baking apples

• 1/2 c pecans, roughly chopped

• 3 Tbsp old-fashioned rolled oats

• 3 Tbsp brown sugar

• 2 tsp cinnamon

• 4 Tbsp salted butter, softened*

• 1/2 c water*

*This recipe does not include basic staples in the 5-ingredient list

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Core the apples, leaving the bottoms intact to create a cavity for the filling.  To do this, carefully insert a knife vertically into the top of the apple and cut in a circular motion. Then, use a spoon to scoop out the core. Place the apples upright in an 8x8 baking dish.

   

3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, pecans, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.

   

4. Divide the pecan mixture evenly among the apples, pressing it into the centers. Pour the water around the apples.

   

5. Cover the apples with aluminum foil to keep from browning too quickly. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove aluminum foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until the apples are tender and the pecan topping is golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!