Stuffed Mini Baked Apples with Oats and Mild Vanilla Sauce

A True Winter Classic for Little Hands

A true winter classic in a miniature format, perfect for small hands. The apples are baked until soft and filled with a mild, low-sugar oat mixture. This dish warms from the inside out while providing valuable fiber for healthy digestion. It is simply a joy to share this fragrant dessert together on a chilly afternoon.

Ingredients

For the baked apples:

• 4 small apples (organic preferred)
• 40 g rolled oats
• 20 g ground almonds
• 1 tbsp soft butter
• 1 tsp maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 pinch Ceylon cinnamon

For the mild vanilla sauce:

• 250 ml milk (whole milk or oat drink)
• 1 egg yolk (fresh)
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• Seeds from half a vanilla bean
• 1 tsp maple syrup

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius using top and bottom heat.
2. Wash the apples, cut off the tops, and carefully hollow out the core with a spoon.
3. In a bowl, mix the oats, ground almonds, soft butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Stuff the mixture into the hollowed apples and place the apple tops back on.
5. Put the apples in a small baking dish and bake in the oven for about 25 minutes until soft.
6. For the sauce, slowly heat the milk with the vanilla seeds in a small pot.
7. Whisk the egg yolk with the cornstarch and maple syrup until smooth, add to the hot milk, and bring to a brief boil while stirring until a creamy sauce forms.
8. Remove the apples from the oven, let them cool down a bit, and always test the temperature before serving.

Variations and Tips

• Vary the filling: You can use ground hazelnuts instead of almonds or mix fine raisins into the oats.
• Storage: The baked apples can be kept in the fridge for up to two days. The vanilla sauce is best prepared fresh.
• For the whole family: Adults can enhance the apples on their own plates with chopped walnuts and a touch more cinnamon.
• Adjust the texture: For children who prefer softer textures, you can lightly mash the baked apples with a fork before serving.

Allergy Information and Safety

This recipe contains milk, eggs, and tree nuts (almonds), which are common allergens. Always introduce new ingredients one at a time and in small amounts to easily observe any potential reactions. Strictly ensure that nuts are always finely ground for young children, as whole or roughly chopped nuts present a choking hazard. If you have any uncertainties about diet or potential allergies, it is best to consult your pediatrician.

Nutritional Value and Energy

The apples and oats provide plenty of fiber, which supports healthy digestion and keeps your child full for longer. Additionally, the ground almonds offer valuable unsaturated fatty acids for brain development. This combination gives your child a wonderful portion of long-lasting energy on cold days.