Festive Baked Apples with Marzipan and Pecans

Name: Festive Baked Apples with Marzipan and Pecans
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 1/2 cup marzipan, crumbled; 1/4 cup pecans, chopped; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 cup raisins (optional); 1/4 cup unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Seasonal Recipes Festive

Delight in the warm, comforting flavors of Festive Baked Apples filled with sweet marzipan and crunchy pecans, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-04T19:05:50.846Z

These Festive Baked Apples with Marzipan and Pecans are a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. The combination of sweet marzipan and crunchy pecans creates a delicious filling that complements the tender, warm apples perfectly.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, gooey filling with a delightful crunch
A beautiful and festive dessert for any occasion
Simple ingredients that come together effortlessly

      

The Joy of Holiday Baking

Baking during the holidays is more than just preparing food; it’s a way to create memories with family and friends. The aromas that fill your home, from cinnamon to baked fruit, evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Festive Baked Apples are not only delicious but also a centerpiece that sparks conversation and smiles. They invite everyone to gather around the table and share in the joy of the season.

These baked apples are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even as a sweet breakfast treat with a drizzle of honey. Their comforting flavors and beautiful presentation make them a perfect addition to any holiday menu. Plus, the process of making them together can become a cherished family tradition.

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of sweet marzipan and crunchy pecans creates a lovely contrast in texture, making each bite a delightful experience. The warm cinnamon adds a hint of spice, perfectly complementing the natural sweetness of the apples. This balance of flavors is what elevates these baked apples from a simple dish to a festive delight that everyone will love.

Using different varieties of apples can also enhance the flavor profile. For instance, tart Granny Smith apples provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet filling, while Honeycrisp apples offer a juicy, sweet bite. Experimenting with different types of apples can lead to exciting variations that cater to your personal taste preferences.

Ingredients

For the Baked Apples

4 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1/2 cup marzipan, crumbled
1/4 cup pecans, chopped
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup raisins (optional)
1/4 cup unsalted butter

Enjoy your delicious baked apples!

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Core the apples, making sure to leave the bottom intact. This will allow the filling to stay inside.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine the crumbled marzipan, chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and raisins if using. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Apples

Stuff each apple with the marzipan mixture until they are filled to the top.

Bake the Apples

Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. Dot the tops with butter and pour a little water into the bottom of the dish to create steam. Bake for 30 minutes or until the apples are tender.

Let the apples cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

Tips for Perfect Baked Apples

To ensure your baked apples turn out perfectly, choose apples that are firm and fresh. Soft or overripe apples may collapse during baking, resulting in a less appealing presentation. Look for apples with a smooth skin and vibrant color for the best results.

When coring the apples, make sure to leave about half an inch at the bottom. This prevents the filling from leaking out while baking, ensuring that each apple retains its shape and the filling stays intact. Also, feel free to customize the filling by adding your favorite nuts or spices to make it uniquely yours.

Serving Suggestions

These Festive Baked Apples are delightful on their own, but they can be elevated with additional toppings. Consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also add a touch of luxury, making them even more festive.

For a healthier option, serve the baked apples with a sprinkle of granola or a dollop of Greek yogurt. This not only adds texture but also balances out the sweetness of the dish, making it a delicious and nutritious choice for breakfast or brunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Yes, feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds.

→ How can I store leftover baked apples?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I prepare these apples ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and stuff the apples ahead of time, then bake them just before serving.

→ What can I serve with baked apples?

These baked apples pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.