A delightful dessert featuring tender baked apples infused with warm spices and ginger, perfect for a cozy evening.
Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a casserole dish by coating it with nonstick cooking spray.
Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the apples inside for even cooking.
Peel the apples halfway down from the stem end and core them without cutting through the bottom.
Use an apple corer for a neat and easy process.
Place the prepared apples in the casserole dish.
Ensure the apples are upright and stable in the dish.
Mix the crystallized ginger and butter in a small bowl, then spoon half of the mixture into each apple.
Press the mixture gently into the apple cavities to ensure even distribution.
In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, lemon juice, lemon peel, and cinnamon. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the syrup begins to boil.
Stir continuously to prevent the sugar from burning.
Pour the prepared syrup over the apples in the casserole dish.
Pour slowly to ensure the syrup coats the apples evenly.
Bake the apples in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
Check the apples halfway through baking and baste with the syrup for extra flavor.
Serve the baked apples warm, optionally garnished with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.