Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These stuffed apples bring together natural sweetness and hearty texture in a simple yet elegant dish. The cinnamon and brown sugar add warmth and depth, while the optional nuts and dried fruit add delightful bites of flavor. The creamy vanilla custard sauce elevates the dessert, making it feel special and indulgent with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
Rolled oats
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Salt
Butter, melted
Chopped nuts (optional)
Raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Water (for baking)

For the vanilla custard sauce:

Milk
Sugar
Cornstarch
Salt
Egg yolks
Vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Prepare Apples: Wash and core the apples, leaving the base intact to hold the filling.
Make Filling: In a bowl, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. Stir in nuts and dried fruit if using.
Stuff Apples: Fill each apple generously with the oatmeal mixture, pressing lightly. Arrange upright in the baking dish.
Add Water: Pour 1 cup of water into the baking dish bottom to create steam.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until apples are tender.
Make Custard Sauce: In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Heat over medium, whisking until simmering.
Thicken Custard: In a bowl, whisk egg yolks and vanilla. Gradually add warm milk mixture, whisking constantly. Return to pan and heat until thickened, stirring continuously.
Cool Sauce: Remove from heat and let custard cool slightly.
Serve: Plate baked apples and drizzle generously with warm vanilla custard sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Variations

Swap oats for quinoa flakes or crushed granola for texture variation.
Use maple syrup or honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for extra spice.
For a dairy-free custard, use coconut milk and cornstarch, and omit egg yolks.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat apples gently in the oven and warm custard on the stove before serving.

FAQs

Can I use different apple varieties?

Yes, tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Fuji work well.

Can I prepare this ahead?

Yes, stuff apples in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Is the custard sauce difficult to make?

No, just whisk constantly to avoid lumps and cook until thickened.

Can I omit the nuts and dried fruit?

Absolutely, the filling is delicious even without extras.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives, and use a vegan custard recipe.

How do I know when apples are done?

They should be tender but still hold their shape.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but custard can be frozen separately.

What can I serve alongside?

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream are lovely accompaniments.

Can I use quick oats?

Old-fashioned rolled oats are preferred for texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch.

How do I store the custard sauce?

Keep in a covered container in the fridge and stir before reheating.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce is a delightful dessert combining warm, spiced flavors and creamy textures. It’s a comforting and wholesome choice that’s perfect for seasonal celebrations or any time you want a simple yet elegant sweet treat.