Belarusian Honey-Baked Apples
Delight in the warm, comforting flavors of Belarus with this traditional dessert of Honey-Baked Apples. Perfectly softened and infused with honey, these apples offer a simple yet delightful way to experience Belarusian cuisine. The recipe meticulously follows traditional methods to ensure authenticity and requires minimal ingredients, allowing the natural sweetness of the apples and honey to shine through.
4
Servings
240
Calories
3
Ingredients
Ingredients
apples
4 (cored, whole)
honey
1/2 - 1 cup (liquid)
powdered sugar
2 tablespoons (for dusting)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Carefully core each apple without cutting through the bottom, leaving the apples whole.
3
Place the apples in a baking dish, ensuring they are upright and stable.
4
Fill each cored apple with honey, distributing evenly. Adjust the amount of honey between 1/2 to 1 cup according to your sweetness preference.
5
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 90 minutes. Check after the first hour; apples should be tender and have a texture similar to pie apples.
6
Once baked, remove the apples from the oven and let them cool slightly.
7
Before serving, dust the apples lightly with powdered sugar for a touch of added sweetness and visual appeal.
8
Serve warm, and enjoy this comforting dessert.
Nutrition Information
64.5g
Carbs
0.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Belarusian Honey-Baked Apples?
They are a traditional Belarusian dessert consisting of whole apples cored and filled with honey, then baked until tender.
What is the best type of apple to use for this recipe?
Firm apple varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are ideal as they hold their shape well during the long baking process.
How long do the apples need to bake?
The apples should be baked for 60 to 90 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
What should the texture of the baked apples be?
The finished apples should be tender and have a soft texture similar to apples used in a pie.
How much honey is required for the filling?
The recipe calls for 1/2 to 1 cup of honey, depending on your preferred level of sweetness.
Can I use a honey substitute for a vegan version?
Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, though it will slightly alter the traditional flavor.
Do I need to peel the apples before baking?
No, the apples should remain unpeeled to help them maintain their structure while baking.
How do I core the apples without cutting through the bottom?
Use an apple corer or a small spoon to remove the seeds and core while stopping just before you reach the base of the apple.
Can I add nuts to the honey filling?
Yes, adding crushed walnuts or hazelnuts is a popular variation that adds a nice crunch to the dessert.
Is this recipe considered a traditional Belarusian dish?
Yes, this recipe follows traditional Belarusian methods and minimal ingredients to ensure authenticity.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 240 calories per serving of these honey-baked apples.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients (apples, honey, and powdered sugar) are naturally gluten-free.
Can these be prepared in a microwave?
While possible, the oven is preferred for the traditional texture and slow infusion of honey.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe is designed to serve 4 people, with one apple per serving.
Should I serve the apples hot or cold?
These are best served warm, allowing the flavors to be most prominent.
Can I add spices like cinnamon?
While the basic recipe is simple, dusting the apples with cinnamon before baking is a common and delicious modification.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 64.5 grams of carbohydrates.
What should I do if the apples fall over in the dish?
Ensure the apples are upright and stable in the baking dish; if necessary, trim a tiny flat sliver off the bottom to level them.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat these apples?
Reheat them gently in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit or for a few seconds in the microwave.
Is there any protein in this dish?
There is a very small amount of protein, about 0.5 grams per serving.
Why is powdered sugar used?
Powdered sugar is used as a final garnish for visual appeal and a light touch of extra sweetness.
Can I use different sizes of apples?
Yes, but keep in mind that smaller apples will cook faster, so start checking them after 45 minutes.
What kind of honey should I use?
Liquid honey is best as it is easier to pour into the cored centers of the apples.
What type of baking dish is recommended?
Any oven-safe baking dish that is deep enough to hold the apples and any juices that may leak out.
Is this a good dessert for children?
Yes, it is a wholesome, naturally sweet dessert that children usually enjoy.
Can I add raisins to the apples?
Yes, stuffing a few raisins into the core with the honey is a common traditional addition.
How do I know when the apples are done?
The apples are done when they are soft to the touch and the honey has bubbled and infused into the flesh.
Can I serve this with ice cream?
Although not strictly traditional, a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm honey apples.
Does this recipe contain any fat?
According to the nutritional data provided, this recipe contains negligible amounts of fat.