Toaster Oven Baked Cinnamon Apples
These toaster oven baked cinnamon apples are a cozy and delicious dessert, perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients and ready in no time, they're a sweet treat you'll want to make again and again.
Why This Works in a Toaster Oven
Using a toaster oven for this recipe allows for faster cooking and caramelization, with the apples becoming perfectly tender and sweet in a small, efficient space.
Toaster Oven Setup
- Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
- Setting: Bake
- Convection: No
- Rack Position: Middle
- Pan Size: 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm)
- Batch Size: 4 apples
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Rotate Pan: Yes, halfway through
- Ready When: The apples are tender and the cinnamon sugar is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
💡 No convection setting? You're all set — this recipe uses the regular Bake setting, so any toaster oven can make it, with or without a convection button.
Ingredients
For the Baked Apples
- 4 medium apples, cored and halved
- 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon (14 g) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple juice or water
Equipment
- Toaster oven
- 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm) baking dish
- Paring knife
- Measuring spoons
- Small mixing bowl
Instructions
- Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F and set it to bake mode.
- Core and halve the apples, placing them cut side up in a 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm) baking dish.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the apples, then dot with small pieces of butter.
- Pour the apple juice or water into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated toaster oven for 25-30 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the apples are tender and the cinnamon sugar is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of these baked cinnamon apples — a perfect treat for any time of the day!
How to Know It's Ready
The apples are tender and the cinnamon sugar is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
Troubleshooting
- If the apples are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil halfway through baking.
- Ensure the apples are similar in size for even cooking.
- If the sugar isn't caramelizing, increase the temperature by 10°F for the last 5 minutes.
- Check the apples for tenderness by piercing them with a fork; they should be soft but not mushy.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Variations
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra flavor.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for added sweetness.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy topping.
- Use pears instead of apples for a different twist.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use any type of apple you prefer. Just be aware that softer apples like McIntosh will cook faster than firmer varieties like Granny Smith.
Do I need to peel the apples?
It's not necessary to peel the apples unless you prefer them without the skin. The skin helps hold the shape during baking.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or granulated sugar if desired.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just add the sugar and butter right before baking.