Cinnamon Nut Stuffed Baked Apples

• 1

  Preheat the oven to 350°F.

• 2

  Arrange the apple halves, cut-side up, in a baking dish. Use a spoon or small melon baller to scoop out the cores and create a small well in the center of each apple.

• 3

  Spread a little Challenge Spreadable Butter with Extra Virgin Olive Oil over the cut surface and inside the center of each apple.

• 4

  In a medium bowl, combine the chopped nuts, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom if using, vanilla, salt, and remaining butter. Stir until evenly combined.

• 5

  Spoon the nut mixture generously into the center of each apple half.

• 6

  If using the cornstarch, whisk it into the 1/2 cup water until smooth. Pour the water mixture into the bottom of the baking dish around the apples.

• 7

  Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

• 8

  Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is golden and caramelized.

• 9

  Spoon the buttery sauce from the bottom of the baking dish over the warm apples.

• 10

  Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Note

• Use your favorite nuts or a mix of whatever you have on hand. The cornstarch is optional, but it will give the buttery maple sauce a slightly thicker, glossier consistency.