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| The Goodness and Deliciousness of a Baked Apple (photo by LivligaHome) |
The texture and sweetness of a baked apple can be just the thing you need when you are wanting an easy, comforting snack or dessert. The great thing about baked apples is that they are easy to make and they can keep well in the refrigerator for serveral days so you can enjoy this treat more than once and with no additional work involved other than heating it up, if you so desire.
Apples have many health benefits. Remember the phrase "an apple a day keeps the doctor away?" It is true. Apples are extremely rich in important antioxidants, flavanoids, and dietary fiber. Research indicates that the phytonutrients and antioxidants in apples help reduce the risk of developing cancer, hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
The trick is to avoid adding unnecessary calories when creating your baked apple. It is easy to pack in the calories by adding generous quantities of butter, brown sugar, and nuts, as well as other high calorie ingredients. I am always looking for ways to add flavor without breaking the bank on calories. Below is my updated healthy version for a baked apple.
Healthy Cinnamon Baked Apple
Ingredients~
1 medium apple, cored
2 teaspoons Splenda brown sugar
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup white wine
Directions~
1. Wash and core the apple, leaving the bottom intact.
2. Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together then fill the well in the apple with the mixture.
3. Place the filled apple in a baking dish. If only baking 1 apple surround it with foil for stability and to make a well around the apple for the white wine.
4. Pour white wine around the apple. Cover with foil. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.
Multiply the ingredients by the number of baked apples you want to make. I often do 4 so my husband and I can enjoy them for dessert one night and then for a snack on another day.
Want to serve it to guests? Add a tablespoon of nonfat greek yogurt and sprinkle it with dried or chopped fresh mint for an additional 18 calories.
Serves 1. Serving size: 1 baked apple. Calories: 135.
Enjoy! And Live Vibrant!
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