Name: Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Creamy Vanilla Custard
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 4 Baking Apples (e.g. Honeycrisp or Granny Smith); 2 tablespoons Salted Butter (can substitute unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt); 1 cup Old-Fashioned Oats (quick oats can be used but texture will differ); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (light or dark options available); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (can swap with coconut sugar); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (can consider pumpkin spice for a festive twist); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (fresh nutmeg enhances the flavor); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste); 2 cups Milk (whole milk preferred for creamier texture); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (adjust according to personal preference); 4 large Egg Yolks (fresh eggs recommended); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure extract is best)

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As autumn leaves swirl to the ground, the kitchen fills with scents that remind us of cherished gatherings and warm celebrations. There’s something magical about the combination of Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Velvety Vanilla Custard Sauce, transforming wholesome ingredients into a heartwarming dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules, but it also offers a delightful twist on traditional treats, ensuring your loved ones will savor every bite. Imagine warm, tender apples bursting with the cozy flavors of cinnamon and oats, all draped in a smooth, creamy sauce. Are you ready to create a new holiday favorite that will bring smiles to your family’s faces? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are Stuffed Apples the Perfect Dessert?

Irresistible Flavor: The blend of warm spices and sweet apples creates a dessert bursting with comforting flavors that embrace the season.

Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and easily found ingredients, this recipe promises a hassle-free experience, perfect for busy holiday entertaining.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve warm, drizzled with Vanilla Custard Sauce, and watch your family and friends gather around for seconds!

Versatile Options: Customize your apples with variations like using crushed granola for added crunch or swapping the sauce for a rich caramel topping.

Wholesome Indulgence: High in fiber from apples and oats, this treat allows you to indulge without guilt while offering a taste of nostalgia.

Whether enjoyed at Thanksgiving or Christmas, these Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples are sure to become a cherished family favorite. Don’t forget to try them warm with a scoop of ice cream or alongside a slice of Blueberry Cinnamon Crunch!

Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples Ingredients

• The following ingredients come together to create the delightful Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce, a perfect warm dessert for any holiday gathering.

For the Apples

Baking Apples – Use Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and tartness.
Salted Butter – Adds richness to the filling; can substitute unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt.

For the Stuffing

Old-Fashioned Oats – Offers great chewiness and wholesome flavor; you can opt for quick oats if you’re in a rush, but the texture will differ.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the stuffing, with light or dark options available; dark brown adds a richer caramel flavor.
Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness; swap with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides warmth and a fragrant aroma; consider pumpkin spice for a festive twist.
Ground Nutmeg – Offers depth and holiday essence; fresh nutmeg will elevate the taste significantly.
Salt – Brings out all the flavors; use sea or kosher salt and adjust to taste.

For the Vanilla Custard Sauce

Milk – Forms the base of the custard; whole milk creates a creamier texture.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the custard; adjust according to personal preference.
Egg Yolks – Gives custard its rich texture; using fresh eggs is essential for optimal flavor.
Vanilla Extract – A key ingredient enhancing the overall taste; opt for pure extract for the best results.

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into preparing this delicious dessert that’s bound to become a holiday tradition!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples will bake evenly, achieving that perfect tender texture. While the oven warms up, gather your baking dish ready for the apples, allowing you to streamline the preparation process.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Carefully core each baking apple, ensuring the bottom remains intact for a secure filling. Use a sharp paring knife or an apple corer for this task. Rinse the apples under cold water and pat them dry; then, place them upright in your baking dish to prepare them for their delicious stuffing.

Step 3: Mix the Stuffing
In a mixing bowl, combine old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir the ingredients together until well combined; the cozy aroma of the cinnamon will fill the air. This delicious stuffing will take your Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples to the next level!

Step 4: Incorporate the Butter
Add the softened salted butter to the oat mixture, using a fork or pastry cutter to blend until the mixture becomes crumbly. This crucial step adds richness and creates a delightful texture in the stuffing. Feel free to use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt if that’s your preference.

Step 5: Stuff the Apples
Gently spoon the oatmeal mixture into the cored apples, packing the filling firmly. Make sure to fill each apple generously, allowing some stuffing to mound on top. This ensures that every bite of your Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples is bursting with flavors of cinnamon and oats—truly a delight!

Step 6: Arrange in Baking Dish
Arrange the stuffed apples in the baking dish in a single layer, making sure they stand upright. Add a splash of water to the bottom of the dish to create steam while baking, which helps keep the apples tender. This gentle steaming process beautifully complements the flavors in your dessert.

Step 7: Bake the Apples
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes. Keep an eye on the apples as they transform—they should become tender and the filling turn a lovely golden brown. You’ll know they’re ready when a fork easily pierces the apple’s skin.

Step 8: Prepare the Vanilla Custard Sauce
While the apples bake, prepare your velvety vanilla custard sauce. In a saucepan, combine milk, granulated sugar, and egg yolks. Stir over medium heat until thickened, ensuring it doesn’t boil. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract for that perfect creamy finish to accompany your stuffed apples.

Step 9: Serve and Savor
Once the Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples have cooled slightly, drizzle them generously with the homemade Vanilla Custard Sauce. Serve warm for the best experience, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. With every bite, indulge in the festive spirit of the season—this delightful dessert will surely be a cherished tradition!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce are perfect for meal prep, making holiday entertaining a breeze! You can prepare the stuffed apples up to 24 hours in advance. Simply core the apples and fill them with the oatmeal stuffing, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven and bake as directed. To ensure they maintain their delightful texture, keep them covered until you’re about to bake, preventing any moisture loss. Enjoy the convenience of having this comforting dessert ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce

As the sweetness wafts from the oven, complement this tender dessert with delightful pairings that round out your holiday gathering.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A velvety side that contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced apples, adding comfort to your meal.
Savory Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans tossed with toasted almonds provide a refreshing crunch that lightens up your dessert.
Apple Cider Sangria: This fruity, spiced beverage enhances the apple theme, drawing out the cozy flavors of your delicious dessert.
Warm Cinnamon Rolls: Indulge in these pillowy treats alongside the apples for a delightful brunch spread that’ll warm everyone’s hearts.
Whipped Cream: A classic topping that adds a light and airy touch to your cinnamon oatmeal stuffed apples, making every bite divine.
Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside the warm dessert for a luscious contrast that pairs perfectly with the comforting flavors.
Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of this spiced, creamy soup provides a heartwarming start to the meal and aligns nicely with autumn flavors.
Pecan Pie: Representing classic holiday fare, this rich dessert offers a delightful contrast to the softer textures of the apples.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of seasonal fruits brings a burst of color and a touch of brightness to the table.
Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai elevates the meal further, harmonizing perfectly with the comforting notes of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm baking apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. They hold their shape well during baking, ensuring a perfect texture.

• Mix Gently: When combining your stuffing ingredients, mix until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to a dense texture in your Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples.

• Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the apples—overbaking can result in mushy apples. Start checking for tenderness around the 40-minute mark.

• Make-Ahead Option: Stuff the apples the night before and refrigerate them. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an easy bake before serving.

• Custard Sauce Tip: If you prepare your Vanilla Custard Sauce ahead of time, allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating, ensuring the best texture when serving.

• Add a Personal Touch: Feel free to personalize the filling with nuts, dried fruits, or even a splash of bourbon for an adult twist. Each variation can elevate your dessert experience!

Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious ideas to make this recipe your own and whip up something truly special!

Granola Crunch: Substitute oats with crushed granola for a delightful crunch that adds texture to every bite.
Maple Sweetness: Use pure maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a rich, earthy sweetness that complements the apples beautifully.
Caramel Delight: Swap the Vanilla Custard Sauce for warm caramel sauce for an indulgent twist that will leave everyone wanting more.
Nutty Addition: Stir in a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to enhance flavor and add a satisfying crunch in the stuffing.
Dried Fruit: Add chopped dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins to the oat mixture for a burst of sweetness and chewy texture.
Spicy Kick: Infuse the stuffing with a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a surprising heat that pairs wonderfully with the sweet apples.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the finished stuffed apples just before serving, creating a heavenly dessert experience.

Why not pair these stuffed apples with a scoop of Healthy Banana Oatmeal for a wholesome treat or serve them with the rich goodness of Cheesy Baked Sauce on the side? There’s no end to the joy you can create in your kitchen!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples

Room Temperature: These stuffed apples can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours after baking. If left longer, refrigerate to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Store leftover Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven for the best taste.

Freezer: Freeze the stuffed apples before baking by placing them in a freezer-safe container or sealing them in plastic wrap. They’re good for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Reheating: To reheat leftover apples, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover with aluminum foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15–20 minutes.

Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Velvety Vanilla Custard Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for stuffing?
I recommend using firm baking apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. These varieties provide a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, ensuring they hold their shape during baking while delivering fantastic flavor.

How should I store leftover stuffed apples?
To preserve their freshness, store leftover Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep them nice and tender! When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can gently reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze the stuffed apples, and if so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed apples before baking. Wrap each apple tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’re good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw them in the fridge overnight before following the baking instructions.

What if my apples are getting mushy during baking?
To prevent mushy apples, ensure you’re using firm varieties and keep an eye on the baking time. Begin checking for tenderness around the 40-minute mark. If they’re soft when pierced with a fork, it’s time to take them out! Aim for a tender apple that still holds its shape.

Is this dessert suitable for people with allergies?
When it comes to allergies, be sure to check the ingredients closely. This dessert contains oats and dairy due to the custard sauce, which may affect those with gluten or lactose sensitivities. You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use gluten-free oats for a safe, delicious option.

How long can I keep these apples at room temperature after baking?
These delicious stuffed apples can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. However, if you need them to last longer, I suggest refrigerating them to maintain their freshness and flavor. Enjoy your delightful dessert!