📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is a crucial first step, as a properly heated oven ensures even cooking and prevents the apples from becoming mushy.
2. Prepare the Apples: Wash 4 medium-sized apples (such as Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Gala). These varieties hold their shape well during baking and offer a pleasant sweetness.
3. Core the Apples: Using an apple corer or a sharp knife, carefully remove the core from each apple, leaving the bottom intact. You want to create a well in the center for the streusel filling. Be careful not to pierce the bottom of the apples!
4. Make the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces. (If you're feeling fancy, toast the walnuts lightly in a dry pan for enhanced flavor, though honestly, I never have time for that!)
5. Combine the Streusel: Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture for the perfect crumbly texture. This is key to that delightful streusel crunch!
6. Fill the Apples: Spoon the streusel mixture into the center of each cored apple, packing it gently. Don't overfill, as the streusel will expand slightly during baking.
7. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This prevents the apples from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
8. Add Liquid to the Dish: Pour 1/4 cup of apple juice or water into the bottom of the baking dish. This creates steam, which helps to keep the apples moist and prevents them from drying out during baking.
9. Arrange the Apples: Place the filled apples in the prepared baking dish, making sure they are not touching each other. This allows for even heat distribution.
10. Bake the Apples: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the streusel topping is golden brown. You can test for doneness by inserting a fork into the side of an apple; it should slide in easily.
11. Let Cool Slightly: Remove the baked apples from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and prevents you from burning your tongue.
12. Serve: Serve the baked apples warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy!