Recipe: Cinnamon Baked Apples

by Renaldo P. Gustavus

Who can resist the primal aroma of baking apples and cinnamon wafting through the house? Not many folks! Realtors maintain nothing tempts a potential home buyer more than the aroma of a freshly baked, cinnamon-laced apple pie! Is "It's not easy being green" your new theme song? This same yummy aroma may bring a bit of relief their way as well!

Cinnamon, known for its unique flavor, aroma and healing capabilities, could put a smile on your face. Research has found that a healthy sprinkle of cinnamon helps your blood sugar remain level. Why should a pregnant woman care about blood sugar? Drops in blood sugar levels can increase mood swings, lower energy levels, and bring about a host of other challenges that are not on your 'registry list' you created! Tuck away that stick of cinnamon in your bag of tricks and enjoy an added bonus of a delicious baked apple treat. It's bound to improve the mom-to-be's mood!

Cinnamon Baked Apples

Makes four servings
Preparation time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 baking apples
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 4 tablespoons oatmeal
• 1 tablespoon honey (or less to taste)
• 2 tablespoon raisins or currants
• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. Cut apples in half and remove core and seeds. Place in a shallow baking dish. In a small bowl combine butter, nuts and raisins. Spoon on top of the apple halves. Drizzle on honey and sprinkle with spices. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes.

Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt, ice cream or whipped cream.

Cook's Note

Although cinnamon functions as a uterine stimulant in high doses, Penelope Ody, author of "Herbs for a Healthy Pregnancy: From Conception to Childbirth," states it is quite safe as a culinary herb.

Bon appetit! Have you tried this recipe? Tell us in the comments!

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