Baked apple facts for kids
A baked apple is a yummy dish made by cooking an apple in an oven until it's super soft. Usually, the middle part of the apple, called the core, is taken out. This empty space is then filled with tasty sweet or savory things. You can also bake pears and quinces in a similar way!
Baked apples are popular in many countries, especially in Europe. For example, in Germany, people often enjoy baked apples during the Christmas holidays.
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How to Make a Baked Apple
Making a baked apple is quite simple! First, the core of the apple is carefully removed. Sometimes, the apple is peeled halfway down. This helps stop the apple from bursting open while it bakes.
What Goes Inside?
The empty space in the apple is then filled with different ingredients. These can be sweet or savory.
Sweet fillings often include:
- Sweeteners like brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup.
- Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves.
- A little butter or liquids like wine.
- Dried fruits like raisins, dates, or prunes.
- Nuts like walnuts or pistachios.
- Sometimes, even marzipan is used, especially in Germany.
- A splash of lemon juice can add a nice tangy flavor.
Savory baked apples can be filled with things like sausage or mincemeat. They are often served as a side dish with roasted meats.
After filling, the apples are baked in the oven until they are soft and tender.
Different Kinds of Baked Apples
There are a few fun variations of baked apples:
Black Cap
A black cap is a special kind of baked apple. The apple is cut in half, then filled with lemon peel and candied orange peel or orange marmalade. The halves are put back together and baked with wine and sugar. The oven is set very hot at first to make the tops look a bit blackened.
Biffin
In Norfolk, England, there's a unique baked apple called a biffin or beefing. It's made from a special apple type called the Norfolk Biffin. This apple is baked under a weight to flatten it into a cake shape. It's also baked on a layer of straw to soak up moisture. Biffins are usually served with cream after their skin is removed.
Apple Dumpling
If a baked apple is wrapped in a pastry crust, it becomes an apple dumpling. It's like a little pie with a whole apple inside!
How to Serve Baked Apples
Baked apples are delicious on their own, but they are often served with yummy toppings. Some popular choices include:
