Roasted Apples with Blue Cheese: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory

There’s something magical about the combination of roasted apples, creamy blue cheese, and crunchy walnuts. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a cozy dessert, Roasted Apples with Blue Cheese is a dish that never fails to impress. It’s elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients: The Essentials for Roasted Apples with Blue Cheese

Here’s everything you’ll need for this recipe, organized for your convenience:

Category	Ingredients
Apples	4 apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala)
	2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Toppings	1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
	1/4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
	2 tablespoons honey
	1 tablespoon lemon juice
	1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
	Fresh thyme sprigs (optional garnish)
Substitutions	Goat cheese for a milder flavor
	Pumpkin seeds for nut allergies

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break down the process of making this delightful dish, one step at a time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

1. Choose your apples. Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala work best for their sweet yet firm texture.
2. Cut each apple in half and remove the cores to create a small cavity. A melon baller or spoon works well for this step.
3. Brush the cut sides of the apples with melted butter. Sprinkle with cinnamon if you’d like an added touch of warmth.

Step 3: Roast the Apples

1. Place the apples cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Roast them in the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re tender and golden around the edges.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

1. Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven.
2. Fill each apple cavity with crumbled blue cheese and chopped toasted walnuts.
3. Drizzle each apple with honey and a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Step 5: Final Bake

• Return the apples to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, just enough time for the blue cheese to soften and become slightly gooey.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the apples to serving plates.
2. Drizzle with a bit more honey for added sweetness.
3. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired. The herbal note adds a layer of sophistication to the dish.

Why You’ll Love Roasted Apples with Blue Cheese

This recipe is a harmony of contrasts: the warm, caramelized apples pair beautifully with the creamy, tangy blue cheese. Add the crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of honey, and you’ve got a dish that’s as balanced as it is delicious.

• Elegant Yet Easy: Perfect for entertaining or a quiet night in.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it to dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
• Nutritious and Delicious: Apples are rich in fiber, while blue cheese and walnuts offer healthy fats and protein.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/2 Apple)
Calories	140
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	3g
Cholesterol	10mg
Sodium	100mg
Total Carbohydrates	16g
Protein	3g

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Roasted Apples

• Choose the Right Apples: Use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji to hold their shape during roasting.
• Toast the Walnuts: Toasting brings out the nutty flavor and adds a delicious crunch.
• Mind the Cheese: Blue cheese is bold, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste. For a milder option, try goat cheese.
• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: It balances the sweetness and prevents the apples from browning too quickly.

Creative Variations

1. Savory Twist: Replace honey with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a savory appetizer.
2. Nut-Free Version: Substitute walnuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a crunch without the allergens.
3. Herbaceous Flavor: Swap thyme for rosemary for a different herbal profile.
4. Dairy-Free Option: Use a vegan cheese alternative for a plant-based dish.

FAQs About Roasted Apples with Blue Cheese

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples and roast them partially. Before serving, add the toppings and finish with the final bake.

2. What’s the best way to core the apples?
A melon baller or a sturdy spoon works well for creating a neat cavity without cutting through the apple.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Goat cheese is a great alternative for a milder flavor. Brie or feta could also work well.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover roasted apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the texture.

5. Are there other nuts I can use?
Yes, pecans or almonds would be delicious alternatives to walnuts.

6. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Use a vegan butter and plant-based cheese alternative, and replace honey with maple syrup.

Conclusion: A Dish to Impress and Savor

Roasted Apples with Blue Cheese is a simple yet stunning recipe that elevates any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert or a savory side, the balance of flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ready to try this recipe? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic happen!

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