Maple-Pecan Stuffed Baked McIntosh Apples

 

Ingredients

 4 large McIntosh apples  

 1/4 cup gluten-free rolled oats

 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts

 1tbsp organic coconut oil (melted) or vegan butter substitute

 2 tbsp pure maple syrup or agave syrup

 1/2 tsp teaspoon ground cinnamon

 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

 A pinch of sea salt

 2 tbsp dairy-free vanilla yogurt or coconut whipped cream (for serving, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep:

 Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.

 Lightly grease a baking dish or iron skillet large enough to hold the apples comfortably.

2. Core the Apples:

 Wash the McIntosh apples thoroughly.  

 Using a paring knife or an apple corer, remove the core from each apple, stopping about inch before the bottom so the base stays intact to hold the filling.

3. Mix the Filling:

 In a small mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free rolled oats, chopped pecans, melted coconut oil (or vegan butter), maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened and fragrant.

4. Stuff the Apples:

 Spoon the oat and pecan mixture tightly into the core cavity of each apple, pressing down gently.

5. Bake:

 Place the stuffed apples in your prepared baking dish. Pour about 

2 tablespoons of water into the bottom of the dish to keep the apples moist as they steam and bake.

 Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender and the skins are slightly wrinkled, but still holding their shape. (Note: Because McIntosh apples soften quickly, keep a close eye on them around the 25-minute mark so they don't collapse completely.)

6. Serve:

 Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Spoon any warm pan juices back over the tops.

 Serve warm on its own, or top with a dollop of dairy-free vanilla yogurt or coconut whipped cream.