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Cinnamon has been one of my favorite spices long before I knew of its health benefits. It helps stabilize blood sugar, can improve LDL cholesterol and contains properties that help fight against bacterial and fungal infections. There are even studies being done on how cinnamon can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

But while all those attributes are well and good, it’s the scent and taste of cinnamon that melt my heart (and my taste buds). I love it in my morning smoothie and it finds my weakness when I’m served homemade cinnamon rolls. It seems to be synonymous with the holiday desserts, not many which are waistline friendly. Since the last few posts have been about healthier options for the dinner table, I thought you needed at least one option for a healthier dessert. So below you will find my version of Baked Apples. They are great served alone or with freshly whipped organic cream or maybe even a coffee spiked with a bit of brandy :) They also make a great snack on a cold and rainy afternoon. My mouth is already watering…

Baked Apples

4 organic apples (Honey Crisp or Granny Smith hold up well)

¼ cup coconut sugar

¼ rolled oats

½ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp nutmeg

¼ tsp orange zest

4 teaspoons organic coconut oil

1 cup hot water

Heat oven to 375F and place rack one level up from bottom position.

Remove the apple cores, leaving some apple at the bottom. Use a melon baller to create a well about ½”-3/4” wide.

In a small bowl, mix the sugar, oats, cinnamon, nutmeg and orange zest. Divide the mixture evenly into the middle of the apples.

Place the apples in a baking dish that closely fits them. Top each one with 1 tsp coconut oil. Pour the hot water into the bottom of the dish and cover loosely with foil.

Bake for 20 minutes and remove foil. Cook for an additional 20 minutes or until the apples are cooked through (they will be wrinkly and you can easily insert a paring knife into the side).

Remove from oven and serve with fresh whipped cream.