Some desserts don’t shout — they sing gently. In Portugal, especially in the northern villages, maçã assada (baked apples) is the kind of treat that feels like home. It’s rustic, elegant, and nourishing, infused with love from generations who knew how to turn humble ingredients into a moment of joy.
This version is naturally sweet, subtly spiced, and completely wholesome — a dessert that’s as good for your soul as it is for your body.
Meal Idea: Maçã Assada — Baked Apples with Cinnamon & Orange
What makes this dessert special? It’s:
- Naturally sweetened with orange juice and maple syrup
- Vegan and gluten-free
- Spiced just right with cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla
- Slow-roasted for depth and aroma
Recipe
Wholesome Portuguese Baked Apples (Serves 4)
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples (like Gala or Fuji), cored
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: chopped walnuts or raisins
- Garnish: orange zest and fresh mint
Instructions
- Preheat Oven. Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prep Apples. Place apples in a baking dish. Fill the center of each with a teaspoon of chopped walnuts or raisins if using.
- Create Sauce In a bowl, mix orange juice, maple syrup, cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla.
- Pour & Bake Pour the sauce over the apples. Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, basting occasionally with juices, until apples are tender and caramelized.
- Serve Warm Spoon pan juices over each apple, garnish with zest and mint.
Why It’s Special
This dessert is comfort distilled — warm, fragrant, and easy on the body. Apples offer fiber and antioxidants, and the spices gently support digestion and immunity. No refined sugar, no dairy, just pure joy in every bite. You could pair it with a dollop of unsweetened coconut yogurt or savor it solo with a mug of herbal tea.
Until next time…Happy Parenting!
~ Momma Braga
