German baked apples facts for kids
German baked apples (called Bratapfel in German) are a yummy dessert from Germany. They are made by baking apples, often a type called Belle de Boskoop. People usually fill them with different tasty things. These baked apples are a popular treat, especially around Christmas. You might even get them served with creamy vanilla custard.
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Why Baked Apples Are Special
Apples are the most common fruit grown in Germany. They are used in many German dishes and drinks. In the past, apples were the only local fruit that stayed fresh all winter. This made baked apples a smart and tasty choice for holiday desserts. They were also a warm and sweet main dish during cold weather.
How German Baked Apples Are Made
Making baked apples is quite fun! First, the middle part of the apple (the core) is removed. Then, the apple can be filled with many different ingredients.
Popular Fillings
Some common fillings include:
- Chopped almonds
- Sweet marzipan
- Raisins
- A little rum (for flavor)
- Butter
- Lemon juice
- Sugar
- Warm spices like cinnamon
Baking and Serving
Sometimes, the apples are baked in a dish with white wine and honey. They bake until they are soft and tender. German baked apples are often served warm. They taste great with creamy vanilla custard or a scoop of ice cream.
Special Baking Tools
Long ago, apples could be baked right on top of a wood stove. People also used special round cast iron dishes called "apple schnitzers." These dishes had a spike in the middle. This spike helped cook the cored apple from the inside out. Apple schnitzers might have been invented in Germany. They are not used much there anymore, but you can still find them in some Amish communities in the United States.
