Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce

Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce are a heartwarming dessert perfect for autumn and winter. Tender baked apples filled with a sweet, spiced oat mixture pair beautifully with a smooth, rich vanilla custard. It’s a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s simple to make yet elegant enough for any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Warm, spiced apple flavor with cozy oatmeal filling
• Homemade vanilla custard for creamy contrast
• Beautiful presentation with minimal effort
• Naturally sweet and satisfying
• Perfect for make-ahead entertaining or family desserts

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the apples:

• 6 large apples (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• ½ cup flour
• ⅔ cup brown sugar
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, cubed

For the vanilla custard sauce:

• 4 egg yolks
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare apples: Slice the top off each apple and scoop out the core and seeds, leaving a shell about ½-inch thick. Place in a baking dish.
3. Make the oat filling: Combine oats, flour, both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Fill and bake: Spoon the oat mixture into the hollowed apples, mounding slightly on top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until apples are tender and tops are golden.
5. Make the custard: Whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale. In a saucepan, heat milk until just simmering. Gradually whisk hot milk into egg mixture. Return to saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Stir in vanilla.
6. Serve: Let apples cool slightly. Serve warm with a generous drizzle of vanilla custard.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 35–40 minutes
• Custard prep: 10 minutes
• Total time: ~1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Add raisins or chopped nuts to the oat filling
• Use maple syrup in place of some sugar for added flavor
• Try pear instead of apples for a twist
• Spice it up with cardamom or ginger
• Make mini versions with halved apples

Storage/Reheating

• Store baked apples and custard separately in the fridge for up to 3 days
• Reheat apples in a 325°F oven until warmed through
• Warm custard gently on the stove or microwave
• Assemble just before serving for best texture

FAQs

1. What apples work best?

Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn—they hold their shape and taste great.

2. Can I make the custard ahead?

Yes, up to 3 days in advance. Store with plastic wrap touching the surface to avoid a skin.

3. How do I avoid mushy apples?

Don’t overbake and leave enough flesh when hollowing.

4. Can I make it vegan?

Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free custard alternative like coconut milk pudding.

5. Can I freeze these?

Freeze only the baked apples without custard. Thaw and reheat before adding custard.

6. What if the custard is too thin?

Cook it longer while stirring until it thickens, then cool to firm up further.

7. Can I make this less sweet?

Reduce the sugar in both the filling and custard to taste.

8. How do I make crispy topping?

Broil the filled apples for 1–2 minutes after baking to crisp the oat topping.

9. Can I add alcohol to the custard?

Yes—a splash of rum or bourbon adds warmth and depth.

10. Can I serve this cold?

Yes—it’s also delicious chilled or at room temperature.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Vanilla Custard Sauce offer the perfect combination of tender fruit, hearty oats, and luxurious custard. They’re a fantastic dessert choice for any fall or winter occasion, bringing warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to your table.

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