Baked Apples: A Fall Favorite

Apples are in season in the northern part of the US from late summer to early winter.

Luckily, many varieties are available year around thanks to cold storage techniques and different growing seasons in the southern states.

Believe it or not, apples are members of the rose family, and because they have a compartmentalized core, they are classified as a pome fruit. Apples range in color, having either red or green or yellow skins. Taste varies with the variety of apple, from the tart Gravenstein, Pippin and Granny Smith, to the sweetness of the Red and Golden Delicious. Apples not only taste good, they are good for you too.

Apples are a good source of fiber, with the most fiber being found in their skins. If you feel the need to peel your apples because of waxes or possible pesticides, buy organic apples whenever possible. Apples contain many vitamins including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Tiamin-B1, Riboflavin-B2, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Vitamin E and Vitamin K. They also contain essential minerals your body needs like Potassium, Magnesium, Iron and Calcium.

One of the favorite and traditional Halloween party games is bobbing for apples. But what can you do with the left over apples other than making apple pie? Try this healthy, easy and low fat alternative for a change of pace.

To add more zing to this fall favorite, top them off with a scoop of low fat frozen yogurt.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 4 Granny Smith apples

PREPARATION:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Combine walnuts, dried fruit, cinnamon and sugar in a bowl. Core apples and place in a baking dish. Spoon one-fourth of the ingredients into each apple. Bake for 40 minutes or until apples are tender. Servings: 4

Calories: 287, Calories from Fat 50, Total Fat: 5.5g (sat 0.5g), Cholesterol: 0mg, Sodium: 6mg, Carbohydrate: 57.5g, Fiber: 6.8g, Protein: 1.7g

The scent of baking apples will fill your home with a warm aroma that is perfect for the fall air. Not only will your home smell wonderful, but you will feel good too, knowing you are making a healthy and low fat dessert for your family. Enjoy!