Brazil Nut Free Ginger-Cardamom Baked Apples with Walnuts
Warm spiced apples fresh from the oven are one of those desserts that feel far more impressive than the effort involved, and this version delivers serious flavor with a filling built around walnuts, honey, and a bold trio of ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. A touch of turmeric and fresh lemon juice round out the spice mix in a way that feels almost exotic without being fussy. The coconut oil binds everything together so the filling stays beautifully mounded inside each apple as it bakes low and slow until the skins wrinkle and caramelize at the edges. Basting with the lemony pan juices halfway through is the small step that makes a big difference, keeping the fruit tender and glossy all the way through. For anyone navigating tree nut concerns specifically around Brazil nuts, this recipe leans on walnuts as its only nut — straightforward, clearly labeled, and easy to source without second-guessing mixed-nut blends. A scatter of pomegranate seeds at the end adds a jewel-bright pop of color and a little tartness that plays beautifully against the sweet, spiced filling. Serve these warm on their own or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that looks like you really tried.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 large firm baking apples (such as honeycrisp or braeburn)
- ¾ cup raw walnuts, roughly chopped
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ⅛ tsp fine sea salt
- 2 tbsp coconut oil, melted
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For serving
- 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a melon baller or small spoon, core each apple from the top, removing the seeds and creating a cavity about 1 inch wide and 2 inches deep, leaving a solid 1/2-inch base so the filling stays in.
- 2
In a small mixing bowl, stir together the walnuts, honey, grated ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and melted coconut oil until the mixture is evenly coated and holds together loosely.
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