From Shaym at SoolFood
A few winters ago, I was staring at a bowl of apples, craving something warm, but not overly sweet. I had some feta in the fridge, a handful of dried cranberries, and a drizzle of honey left in the jar, the rest was an experiment. I hollowed out the apples, packed them with this unlikely combo, and baked them until the kitchen smelled like a holiday candle.
What came out was magic: these Baked Apples with Feta, Honey & Cranberries became my go-to for chilly nights and small gatherings. They’re sweet, salty, tangy, and ridiculously simple to throw together. Now I make them whenever I want a cozy treat that feels both nourishing and elegant.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Apples
Think of this as a dessert with balance. The tender baked apple provides a juicy, sweet base. Feta adds creaminess and salt. Cranberries bring chew and tartness. And honey ties it all together with a glossy, golden finish.
They’re perfect for when you want something:
- Warm and comforting but not overly rich
- Quick enough for weeknights
- Impressive enough for guests
If you love simple, oven-baked recipes like our Air Fryer Carrots or Sweet Potato in Air Fryer, this one will hit the same spot, just a little sweeter.
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey & Cranberries Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work best)
- ½ cup crumbled feta
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons honey (plus more for drizzling)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts, for crunch
- Optional: butter for greasing the dish or adding richness
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prep apples: Core the apples, leaving the bottom intact so the filling doesn’t leak.
- Make filling: In a small bowl, combine feta, cranberries, cinnamon, and 1–2 tablespoons honey. Mix well.
- Fill apples: Spoon the mixture into each apple cavity, packing it gently.
- Bake: Place apples in the dish. Optionally, add a pat of butter on top of each. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake 10 more until apples are tender and tops caramelized.
- Serve: Drizzle with more honey and sprinkle with extra cinnamon before serving warm.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add chopped toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Want it creamier? Mix a touch of cream cheese into the filling.
- Serve with yogurt, vanilla ice cream, or even over oatmeal the next day.
If you’re into cozy oven-baked meals, check out our comforting Beef and Noodles Recipe. It’s the kind of hearty dish that pairs well with a lighter dessert like these apples.
When to Serve These
These baked apples are perfect for:
- Holiday dinners (they look beautiful on the table)
- Brunches with a warm drink
- Afternoon snacks when you want something nourishing
- Light desserts after a heavier meal like Chicken Cutlets
Final Thoughts from Shaym
What I love most about these Baked Apples with Feta, Honey & Cranberries is that they walk the line between sweet and savory so gracefully. They feel rustic, refined, and fuss-free. Whether you’re planning a holiday menu or just need a warm snack, this dish wraps comfort and contrast into one beautiful baked fruit.
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Baked Apples with Feta, Honey & Cranberries – A Sweet-Savory Comfort Food
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 apples
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sweet baked apples stuffed with creamy feta and tart cranberries, drizzled with honey and baked until perfectly tender, a comforting sweet-savory treat.
Ingredients
4 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji)
1/2 cup crumbled feta
1/4 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons honey (plus more for drizzling)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts
Optional: butter for greasing or topping
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Core the apples, leaving the bottoms intact.
3. In a bowl, combine feta, cranberries, cinnamon, and honey. Mix well.
4. Stuff the apple cavities with the filling, gently pressing it in.
5. Place apples in the baking dish. Optionally top each with a pat of butter.
6. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake 10 more until tender.
7. Drizzle with honey and serve warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Notes
Add nuts for crunch or a touch of cream cheese for creaminess.
Pairs well with yogurt or ice cream for dessert.
Great for brunch or holiday sides, not just dessert!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American