If you’re craving a warm, comforting dessert but short on time, making a baked apple in the microwave is your perfect solution. It’s simple, fast, and lets you enjoy that classic cozy flavor without heating up the oven or waiting forever. Here’s everything you need to know to make a delicious microwave baked apple that tastes just like it came from the oven!
Why Choose Microwave Baked Apples?
Microwaving baked apples offers several great benefits:
– Speed: You can have a soft, sweet baked apple ready in just 5 to 10 minutes, compared to the hour it takes in a traditional oven.
– Energy-efficient: Using the microwave uses less power than heating a full oven.
– Customizable: You can easily add your favorite spices, nuts, or toppings to suit your taste.
– Healthy: Apples are naturally nutritious, and baking them enhances their sweetness without added sugars.
Picking the Right Apple
Choosing the right apple is key to getting the best texture and flavor. Some apples hold up better to microwaving and baking:
– Granny Smith: Tart and firm, perfect if you like a tangy contrast to sweet toppings.
– Honeycrisp: Sweet and crisp, they soften nicely while keeping a bit of texture.
– Fuji: Juicy and sweet, great for a naturally sugary treat.
– Golden Delicious: Mild and tender, they bake evenly and taste great with cinnamon.
Look for firm apples without bruises to ensure they cook evenly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 large apple (your choice of variety)
– 1 to 2 tablespoons brown sugar or a sweetener of your choice
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Optional: butter, nuts, raisins, oats, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Microwave Baked Apples
1. Prepare the Apple
– Wash the apple thoroughly.
– Core the apple carefully to remove the seeds and create a hollow center for filling.
– You can peel the apple if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
2. Fill the Apple
– Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
– Spoon the mixture into the hollowed core of the apple.
– Optionally, add a small pat of butter or some raisins for extra flavor and moisture.
3. Microwave Cooking
– Place the apple upright in a microwave-safe dish.
– Cover loosely with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
– Microwave on high for about 5 to 8 minutes. The exact time depends on your microwave’s power and the size of the apple.
– Check the apple after 5 minutes by gently poking it; it should be tender but not mushy. If needed, microwave in 1-minute increments until done.
4. Let It Cool
– Carefully remove the dish (it will be hot!).
– Let the apple cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle and avoid burns.
Delicious Serving Ideas
– Classic: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
– Healthy: Top with Greek yogurt and sprinkle with chopped nuts or seeds for crunch.
– Extra Sweet: Drizzle with caramel sauce or honey.
– Breakfast Style: Add oats and nuts before microwaving for a wholesome start to your day.
Tips for Perfect Microwave Baked Apples
– Use a microwave-safe dish that fits your apple snugly to prevent tipping.
– If cooking multiple apples, increase cooking time by about 15-20 seconds per additional apple.
– Covering the apple traps steam and helps cook it evenly.
– Experiment with spices like nutmeg, cloves, or pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.
– For a softer texture, slice the apple and microwave the pieces with cinnamon and sugar for 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Making baked apples in the microwave is a fantastic way to enjoy a warm, comforting treat with minimal effort. Whether you want a quick dessert, a healthy snack, or a cozy breakfast, this recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how simple and delicious it is!
Enjoy your warm, sweet baked apple in minutes!