Festive Baked Apples with Marzipan and Pecans

Name: Festive Baked Apples with Marzipan and Pecans
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 1/2 cup marzipan, crumbled; 1/4 cup pecans, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup apple juice

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

Delight in the warmth of the holidays with these Festive Baked Apples, filled with sweet marzipan and crunchy pecans, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T23:10:51.655Z

These Festive Baked Apples are not just a dessert, but a celebration of flavors that evoke the warmth of family gatherings and holiday cheer. The combination of sweet marzipan and crunchy pecans makes each bite a delightful experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The warm spices create a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen.
Sweet marzipan adds a unique twist to traditional baked apples.
Perfect for holiday gatherings or a comforting dessert on a chilly night.

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Festive Baked Apples are more than just a dessert; they encapsulate the joy and warmth of the holiday season. With their inviting aroma wafting through your home, these baked apples make for an excellent centerpiece for your holiday table. Their vibrant colors and delightful flavors will impress guests and family alike, making every bite a memorable experience. As the apples bake, they become tender and juicy, allowing the sweet marzipan and crunchy pecans to meld beautifully, creating a delightful contrast in every mouthful.

These baked apples are not just visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The cinnamon and nutmeg bring a warm, spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the marzipan perfectly. Each ingredient plays a vital role, ensuring that every bite is filled with a symphony of tastes. Whether served as a dessert or a comforting snack, they are sure to become a beloved tradition in your holiday celebrations.

A Creative Twist on Tradition

While baked apples are a classic dish, adding marzipan and pecans offers a creative twist that elevates this traditional dessert. Marzipan, a sweet almond paste, adds a unique flavor profile that sets these apples apart from typical recipes. The rich, nutty flavor of the marzipan pairs beautifully with the tartness of the apples, creating a delightful balance that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Incorporating pecans not only adds a satisfying crunch but also enhances the overall richness of the dish. Their earthy flavor complements the sweetness of the marzipan, creating a harmonious blend that will delight the senses. This combination not only provides textural contrast but also makes the dish more nutritious, giving you a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients during the festive season.

Tips for Perfect Baked Apples

To ensure your baked apples turn out perfectly every time, choose apples that hold their shape well during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These varieties offer a wonderful tartness that balances the sweetness of the filling. Make sure to core the apples carefully; a deep hollow will allow for maximum filling and flavor infusion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of nuts or spices based on your personal preferences, as this dish is versatile and can be tailored to suit various tastes.

For an extra touch, consider drizzling a bit of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream over the warm apples before serving. This indulgence transforms your baked apples into a decadent dessert that will impress even the most discerning guests. Remember, the key to this recipe is patience—allow the apples to bake until they are tender, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as it is comforting.

Ingredients

For the Baked Apples

4 medium-sized apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1/2 cup marzipan, crumbled
1/4 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup apple juice

Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors with every bite!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Apples

Core the apples and create a hollow space in the center of each apple.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the crumbled marzipan, chopped pecans, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.

Stuff the Apples

Stuff the mixture into the hollowed-out apples, pressing it down gently.

Add Butter and Juice

Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. Top each apple with a tablespoon of butter and pour the apple juice around them.

Bake the Apples

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is bubbly.

Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

These baked apples are delicious on their own or served with vanilla ice cream.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store your baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain their texture and flavor, allowing you to relish this delightful treat even after the holiday celebrations have ended.

Alternatively, you can microwave the apples for a quicker option. Just place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don’t overheat. This method is perfect for a quick snack or a sweet pick-me-up during chilly evenings.

Serving Suggestions

These Festive Baked Apples can be served in various delightful ways. For a simple yet elegant presentation, serve them warm on a bed of whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess provides a lovely contrast to the warm, spiced apples, making each bite a delightful experience.

For a more indulgent dessert, drizzle a caramel sauce over the apples just before serving. The rich sweetness of the caramel complements the nutty marzipan and crunchy pecans, taking this dish to a whole new level of decadence. Garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few extra pecans can also add a beautiful finishing touch.

Pairing Beverages

To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing your Festive Baked Apples with warm beverages. A cup of spiced apple cider or hot mulled wine complements the flavors perfectly, creating a cozy atmosphere ideal for holiday gatherings. These drinks echo the spices used in the dish, enriching the overall flavor experience.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a warm chai tea or a creamy hot chocolate can also be delightful companions. The warm spices in these beverages mirror the aromas of the baked apples, ensuring a harmonious pairing that will elevate your dessert experience to new heights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, feel free to use any variety of apples that you prefer or have on hand.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can substitute butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.

→ What can I serve with baked apples?

They are delicious on their own or you can pair them with ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt.