Delight in our easy Baked Apples in White Wine recipe, featuring tender apples infused with aromatic spices and sweet white wine. Perfect for a cozy dessert or holiday gathering, this dish combines simplicity and elegance, making it a must-try for any home chef.

Ever since I made the Baked Pears in White Wine recipe, I have been quite in love with fruits baked in wine! They are a great way to make fruity desserts that are relatively lower in fat than those bathed in cream and sugar. They’re truly delicious, too!

This time, I tried using apples instead of pears, and I baked them in a spiced wine sauce – Italian style! The semi-sweet wine (Chardonnay) spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg lends full flavor to the resulting sauce and brings out the sweetness in the Apples. Ah-mazing!!!

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of green apples with the complex notes of white wine, creating a dessert that’s both rustic and refined.

To include some American touches to the recipe, I used cranberries instead of the usual “sultanas/raisins.” It’s perfect on its own but also lovely served warm with either some whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top!!!

Ingredients for Easy Baked Apples in White Wine (Mele al forno)

1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
1 cup sweet or semi-sweet White Wine (I used Chardonnay)
1/4 teaspoon ground Cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground Nutmeg
2 Tablespoons granulated Sugar
Zest of one Lemon
3-4 Green Apples (similar sizes)
2-3 Tablespoons Butter (depending on the number of apples you are using)

How to make this Easy Baked Apples in White Wine (Mele al forno)

In a bowl, mix the wine and the spices together until the latter has fully dissolved. Add in the dried fruits (I used cranberries). Set aside.

Preheat the oven to 375 F. Butter a baking dish that’s large enough to accommodate the apples. Set aside.

Prepare the apples. Wash and dry them first. Using a corer or a paring knife, remove the central core by making a hole in the center of the apples without cutting it through. Leave the bottom intact.

Spoon the dried fruit mixture into the apples, dividing them evenly. Pour a little of the spiced wine (1-2 teaspoons) on the hollowed core. Sprinkle with half the lemon zest.

Place the apples in the prepared baking dish. Pour in the rest of the wine sauce on the dish. Top each apple core with a knob of butter. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender but not mushy.

The fruit on top may darken as it bakes, but you can easily remove the darkened layer, if you don’t like it, to reveal the delicious and soaked juicy fruits underneath.

Serve hot or warm on its own or with a little cream or ice cream and garnish with the remaining lemon zest.

You may also serve it at room temperature. Enjoy!

Choosing the Perfect Apples

For this recipe, green apples are the star. Their firm texture and tart flavor make them ideal for baking. Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice, but any firm, tart apple variety will work beautifully. The key is to select apples of similar size to ensure even cooking.

The Magic of White Wine in Desserts

The addition of white wine elevates this simple dessert to new heights. A sweet or semi-sweet Chardonnay is recommended, but feel free to experiment with your favorite white wine varietal. The wine not only infuses the apples with a delicate flavor but also creates a luscious sauce as it mingles with the fruit juices during baking.

Spices and Aromatics: The Secret to Depth

A blend of cinnamon and nutmeg provides warmth and depth to the dish, while a touch of lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that beautifully complements the wine and apples. These aromatic additions elevate the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Baked Apples in White Wine

Can I use red wine instead of white wine?
While white wine is traditional, you could experiment with a light red wine for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the apples are done?
The apples should be tender when pierced with a fork, but still hold their shape.
Can I make this recipe alcohol-free?
Yes, you can substitute the wine with apple juice or apple cider for a non-alcoholic version.
What’s the best way to core apples without an apple corer?
Use a paring knife to carefully cut around the core, then use a spoon to scoop it out.
Can I use different types of dried fruit in the filling?
Absolutely! Dried cherries, apricots, or a mix of your favorite dried fruits would work well.

Baked Apples in White Wine is a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. It’s simple enough for a cozy night in, yet elegant enough for a dinner party. The combination of tender apples, aromatic spices, and the subtle complexity of white wine creates a dessert that’s sure to impress. So why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds will thank you!