Artificial Food Coloring Free Honey-Cinnamon Baked Apples
Warm, caramelized, and fragrant with cinnamon and ginger, these baked apples are the kind of dessert that feels indulgent without requiring much effort at all. Every single ingredient here is exactly what it says it is — fresh fruit, rolled oats, real honey, and a pat of butter — so there's no need to squint at a label hunting for dyes or synthetic additives. That matters more than people realize with packaged desserts and even some spice blends, which can sneak in colorants you'd never expect. Using Ceylon cinnamon specifically gives a slightly floral, gentler warmth compared to the more common cassia variety, and it pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of Honeycrisp or Fuji apples as they soften in the oven. The water poured into the baking dish creates just enough steam to keep everything tender and juicy rather than dry or shriveled. A drizzle of honey and a spoonful of fresh ricotta at the end turns a simple baked fruit into something that feels genuinely special — no artificial anything required.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 medium baking apples (such as honeycrisp or fuji)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tbsp honey
- ⅓ cup rolled oats
- 1 tsp ground ceylon cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ⅛ tsp fine salt
- ½ cup water
For serving
- 1 tbsp honey, for drizzling
- 2 tbsp fresh ricotta (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 1½ inches deep — leave the bottom intact so the filling stays in place.
- 2
In a small bowl, stir together the softened butter, 3 tbsp honey, rolled oats, Ceylon cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt until a cohesive, crumbly mixture forms.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!