When I first stumbled onto this Microwave Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Raisins Recipe, I was blown away by how quickly such a comforting, cozy dessert could come together. If you love classic baked apples but don’t want to wait forever or heat up the oven, this is your new go-to. The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet raisins, and tender apples is just pure magic—and the microwave does all the heavy lifting. Stick with me, and I’ll share everything you need to know to nail this simple, scrumptious treat every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Speedy Prep and Cooking: You’ll have cozy baked apples on the table in under 15 minutes.
- Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples you probably already have, yet tastes gourmet.
- Customizable Comfort: Easily swap raisins for other dried fruits or add ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a quick dessert, breakfast treat, or even a cozy snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together beautifully to create that classic warm-spiced apple flavor we all love. Don’t worry about fancy varieties—a good, crisp apple like Gala or Fuji works wonders. And keep those raisins handy—they add the perfect chewiness against the tender apples.
- Apples: I recommend Gala or Fuji for their sweetness and texture that holds up well to microwaving.
- Raisins: These bring natural sweetness and a bit of chew; dried cranberries or currants work well if you want a twist.
- Brown Sugar: Adds caramel notes and balances the tartness of the apple perfectly.
- Ground Cinnamon: The classic spice that’s essential for that warm, comforting flavor.
- Butter or Margarine: Adds richness and helps keep everything moist.
- Water: Creates steam so the apples cook evenly without drying out.
- Vanilla Ice Cream or Frozen Yogurt (Optional): Takes this from great to absolutely indulgent when served warm on top.
Variations
One of my favorite things about this microwave baked apples recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your tastes. I often mix it up depending on what I have around or how sweet I want it.
- Dried Fruit Swap: I once ran out of raisins and used chopped dried apricots; it added a subtle tang that my family loved.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top just before microwaving adds an awesome texture contrast.
- Spice Boost: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a deeper warm spice flavor if you like it more aromatic.
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and swap the ice cream for coconut or almond milk-based frozen desserts for a dairy-free treat.
How to Make Microwave Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Raisins Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Apples Like a Pro
Start by coring each apple – this is the heart and soul of making stuffed baked apples. I like to use a small paring knife or an apple corer if I have one handy. Then, peel the top half inch around the core opening; this helps the sugar and spices really soak in and infuse flavor while cooking.
Step 2: Fill Each Apple with Your Yummy Mixture
Into each cored apple, put one quarter of the raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a teaspoon of butter. I press everything down firmly with my thumb so the filling stays put while cooking. This step is what makes those baked apples sing with flavor.
Step 3: Get Ready to Microwave
Pour a cup of water into a flat microwave-safe dish with sides—this creates steam and keeps your apples juicy. Arrange the apples upright in the middle of the dish. Cover loosely with plastic wrap, leaving a little vent so steam can escape (trust me, this prevents soggy apples).
Step 4: Microwave and Watch the Magic
Microwave on full power for 5 to 6 minutes, depending on your microwave’s wattage. You’ll know they’re ready when the apples smell fragrant and feel tender but not mushy. I like to check gently with my finger to make sure they’ve softened just right.
Step 5: Serve Warm with a Sweet Drizzle
Carefully remove the apples and place each in a small bowl. Spoon a little of the cooking liquid over each apple for extra moisture and flavor. If you want to take it up a notch, pour that liquid into a small saucepan and simmer it for 4 – 5 minutes to thicken into a lovely syrup. Serve hot, and don’t forget a scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt for the ultimate finish.
Pro Tips for Making Microwave Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Raisins Recipe
- Use Firm Apples: I learned the hard way that softer apples can turn to mush in the microwave—choosing Gala or Fuji balances softness and shape perfectly.
- Don’t Skip the Peeling: Peeling the top half inch lets the filling melt into the flesh for a more luxurious texture and flavor infusion.
- Adjust Sugar to Taste: Depending on your apple variety, you might want a little more or less brown sugar—taste your filling ingredients if you like before stuffing.
- Vent the Plastic Wrap: Leaving a small vent prevents condensation build-up, keeping your apples from getting soggy and ensuring even cooking.
How to Serve Microwave Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Raisins Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping mine with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream because the contrast of warm apples and cold, creamy ice cream is irresistible. Sometimes I sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or a drizzle of honey for added texture and sweetness. A little dollop of whipped cream works just as well.
Side Dishes
For a complete cozy breakfast, I often serve these apples alongside a big mug of spiced tea or a cup of coffee. They’re also fantastic after dinner paired with a simple green salad or alongside a cheese plate if you want to get fancy.
Creative Ways to Present
One of my favorite occasions to serve this recipe is during holiday brunch. I like placing the apples in small individual ramekins and garnishing with a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds—this makes for a festive and inviting presentation that impresses guests without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which often doesn’t happen in my house), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The apples hold moisture well but can get a bit softer—reheating can help bring them back to life.
Freezing
I’ve frozen these apples successfully a few times by cooling them completely, then wrapping individually in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for 2-3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently in the microwave.
Reheating
To reheat, I place the apples in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and zap for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Keep an eye so they don’t dry out. Pouring a bit of leftover cooking syrup over them before reheating helps keep their lusciousness.
FAQs
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Can I use other types of apples for this microwave baked apples recipe?
Absolutely! While Gala and Fuji apples are great because they hold their shape and have natural sweetness, you can also use Honeycrisp or Pink Lady for a bit more tartness. Just be mindful that very soft or mealy apples might break down too much in the microwave.
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Is it necessary to cover the apples while microwaving?
Yes, covering the dish with plastic wrap (with a small vent) traps steam, which cooks the apples evenly and keeps them moist. Uncovered apples tend to dry out or cook unevenly in the microwave.
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Can I prepare these overnight and microwave in the morning?
Definitely! You can stuff the apples the night before and store them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, just sprinkle a bit of water in the dish and microwave as directed—just add an extra 30 seconds if they’re chilled cold.
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What’s the best way to make the leftover liquid syrup thicker?
Pour the liquid into a small saucepan and simmer it over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until it reduces and thickens to a syrup consistency. This syrup adds a lovely finishing touch when drizzled over the apples before serving.
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Can I make this dessert vegan?
Yes! Substitute the butter with your favorite plant-based margarine and skip the traditional ice cream or use a dairy-free frozen dessert alternative. The apples and spices still deliver all that cozy warmth.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Microwave Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Raisins Recipe manages to capture all the charm of baked apples without the wait. It’s become my quick comfort go-to whenever I want something sweet, warm, and satisfying in minutes. I hope you try this out, tweak it to your heart’s content, and enjoy it as much as my family and I do. Trust me—once you taste how simple and delicious these apples are, you’ll keep coming back for more.
Print
Microwave Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Raisins Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Microwave Baked Apples is a quick and easy dessert that features tender, fragrant apples stuffed with raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. This recipe uses the microwave to soften the apples perfectly, making it a convenient alternative to traditional baking. Served warm and optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt, it’s a deliciously sweet treat perfect for dessert or breakfast.
Ingredients
Apples and Filling
- 4 apples (such as Gala or Fuji)
- 4 Tbsp. raisins (or dried cranberries or currants)
- 4 Tbsp. brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon (or to taste)
- 4 tsp. butter or margarine
Additional
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Core each apple, removing the seeds and core, and peel off the top 1/2 inch of the apple skin to allow the filling to settle well.
- Fill the Apples: In the hollowed center of each apple, combine 1 tablespoon raisins, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon butter. Press the mixture down firmly to pack it inside the apple.
- Set in Microwave-Safe Dish: Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of a flat microwave-safe dish with sides. Place the filled apples upright in the center of the dish to allow even cooking.
- Cover and Cook: Cover the dish loosely with plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on full power for 5 to 6 minutes until the apples are fragrant and soft to the touch. Microwave cooking times may vary, so check tenderness accordingly.
- Serve: Remove the apples carefully from the microwave and place each into individual bowls. Spoon some of the cooking liquid over the apples for extra moisture.
- Optional Syrup Thickening: For a syrup drizzle, pour the cooking liquid into a small saucepan and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until it reduces and thickens slightly. Drizzle over the baked apples if desired.
- Add Toppings: Serve the apples warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt on top for added creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- This recipe works well as a quick dessert or a warm breakfast treat.
- Feel free to substitute raisins with dried cranberries or currants to vary the flavor.
- Adjust cinnamon quantity according to personal taste preference.
- Microwave cooking times may vary based on appliance wattage; monitor apples closely.
- The optional syrup is a nice addition to enhance the texture and taste but is not necessary.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 baked apple
- Calories: 226 kcal
- Sugar: 36 g
- Sodium: 36 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg
