If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day, then this Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy apples bursting with a warm, cinnamon-spiced oatmeal filling, all topped off with a luscious, velvety vanilla custard sauce that’s just sweet enough to make your taste buds sing. This recipe is a perfect balance between wholesome comfort and indulgent delight, making it an absolute favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you—each item here is straightforward, pantry-friendly, and plays an essential role in creating the perfect flavor, texture, and aroma of the dish. From crisp apples and hearty oats to the rich creaminess of the custard, every component works together beautifully.
- Large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): Choose firm apples that hold their shape well when baked and offer a lovely balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Rolled oats: Provides the hearty, chewy base of the stuffing that absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
- Brown sugar: Adds that deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon and apples.
- Ground cinnamon: The aromatic spice that gives the oatmeal stuffing its signature warm, cozy flavor.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors and balance the sweetness perfectly.
- Butter, melted: Brings richness and helps the oats toast slightly for a better texture.
- Chopped nuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and an earthy flavor against the soft apples.
- Raisins or dried cranberries (optional): These little bursts of tangy sweetness complement the cinnamon and apple beautifully.
- Water (for baking): Keeps the apples juicy during baking and prevents them from drying out.
For the vanilla custard sauce:
- Milk: The creamy base that turns into a dreamy, smooth sauce.
- Sugar: Sweetens the custard without overpowering its delicate vanilla notes.
- Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent to give the sauce that perfect velvety texture.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor layers, balancing the sweetness.
- Egg yolks: The key to a rich, custardy consistency.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the sauce with warm, fragrant vanilla that feels like dessert bliss in every bite.
How to Make Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Apples
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a baking dish—this will create the perfect environment for your apples to bake evenly. Thoroughly wash and core each apple, making sure to keep the base intact so that your delicious oatmeal stuffing stays nestled inside during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Oatmeal Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir well—this not only binds the mixture but also adds a lovely buttery richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, fold in chopped nuts or dried fruit at this stage for extra texture and bursts of flavor.
Step 3: Stuff the Apples
Generously fill each cored apple with the oatmeal mixture, pressing it down lightly so the filling stays compact. Place the stuffed apples upright in your prepared baking dish, arranging them carefully so they don’t topple over.
Step 4: Bake with Care
Pour about 1 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish—this will keep your apples nice and moist as they bake. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender to the touch and the oatmeal filling has melded into a warm, comforting whole.
Step 5: Make the Vanilla Custard Sauce
While the apples are baking, start your custard sauce by combining milk, sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan. Heat over medium, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, until the mixture begins to simmer gently. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and vanilla extract, then gradually add the warm milk mixture in a slow stream while whisking vigorously. Pour everything back into the pan and cook on low heat, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your apples come out of the oven, let them cool just slightly. Then, plate them with a generous drizzle of that warm, dreamy vanilla custard sauce. Each bite marries tender apple, nutty oats, and rich custard—pure comfort heaven.
How to Serve Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add an extra layer of flavor, try sprinkling some toasted cinnamon sticks or a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg over the top. A dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh mint leaves can add freshness and a splash of color, making this dessert as beautiful as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines best as a stand-alone treat, but if you want to serve it alongside something else, consider light, complementary additions such as a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a small bowl of spiced chai tea. The warmth and spices in these pairings echo the coziness of the apples and custard without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the baked apples nestled in individual ramekins with the custard poured tableside. Alternatively, slice the apples and arrange them in a shallow dish, pouring custard over the top for a shared dessert experience. No matter how you present it, the Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce Recipe promises a visually inviting and mouthwatering dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover stuffed apples and custard can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The apples will keep well for up to three days, while the custard sauce should be consumed within two to ensure freshness and safety.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the stuffed apples, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to two months. For the custard sauce, freezing is not recommended because its texture can become grainy upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the apples gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Warm the custard sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly to restore its silky smoothness. Pair them back together just before serving for that fresh, comforting experience.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are ideal for their firmness and balanced flavor, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples. Just keep in mind that softer apples might become mushy during baking.
Is there a vegan alternative for the custard sauce?
Yes! You can substitute dairy milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and replace the egg yolks with cornstarch or arrowroot powder thickened with additional plant milk. Vanilla extract will still bring that lovely aroma.
Can I prepare the oatmeal stuffing in advance?
Definitely. You can mix together the oatmeal filling a day ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. This makes stuffing the apples on the day of baking quick and effortless.
What can I use instead of raisins or dried cranberries?
If you prefer a different dried fruit, try chopped dates, chopped dried apricots, or even fresh berries folded into the oatmeal mixture for a unique flavor profile.
How thick should the vanilla custard sauce be?
The custard should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. It should have a smooth, creamy texture without being too runny or overly dense.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce Recipe is a wonderful way to treat yourself and your loved ones to something warm, satisfying, and just a little bit special. It’s a dessert that feels nostalgic but fresh, simple yet impressive. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that magical blend of flavors and textures that makes it so incredibly memorable.
Print
Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful recipe features tender baked apples stuffed with a warm cinnamon oat mixture and served with a creamy vanilla custard sauce. Perfect for a comforting dessert or a special breakfast treat, the combination of spiced oats, nuts, and dried fruit inside sweet baked apples pairs beautifully with the smooth, homemade vanilla custard.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Apples
- 4 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 1 cup water (for baking)
For the Vanilla Custard Sauce
- 2 cups milk
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly and core them, being careful to leave the base intact so the oatmeal filling stays inside during baking.
- Make Oatmeal Mixture: In a bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. Stir in chopped nuts and dried fruit if using to add texture and sweetness.
- Stuff Apples: Generously fill each cored apple with the oatmeal mixture, pressing lightly to pack it in. Arrange the stuffed apples upright in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Water and Bake: Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish to keep the apples moist during baking. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Start Custard Base: While apples bake, combine milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture begins to simmer and thicken slightly.
- Combine Egg Yolks and Milk: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and vanilla extract. Gradually whisk in the warm milk mixture to temper the eggs, then return everything to the saucepan.
- Cook Custard Sauce: Cook the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency. Remove from heat and let the custard cool slightly.
- Serve: Remove the baked apples from the oven and serve warm, drizzled generously with the vanilla custard sauce for a luscious finish.
Notes
- You can substitute rolled oats with quick oats if desired, but the texture will be slightly softer.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
- Covering the baking dish prevents the apples from drying out and ensures even cooking.
- The custard sauce can be prepared ahead of time and gently reheated before serving.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk and cornstarch for the custard sauce, omitting egg yolks.
