Imagine a dessert that transforms humble apricots into a golden, glistening masterpiece of flavor - where honey drips like liquid sunshine, almonds add a delightful crunch, and the aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen with warmth. This Mediterranean-inspired baked apricot recipe is not just a dessert; it's a sensory journey that promises to elevate your culinary repertoire with minimal effort and maximum pleasure. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a luxurious yet simple sweet indulgence, these baked apricots are about to become your new favorite go-to dessert.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 apricots, halved and pitted
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Fresh mint for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Wash the apricots thoroughly under cool running water. Carefully slice each apricot in half and remove the pit, creating a natural cavity for honey and almonds.
- Arrange the apricot halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other for even cooking.
- Using a small drizzle spoon or pastry brush, generously coat each apricot half with honey, allowing it to pool slightly in the center of each fruit.
- Sprinkle cinnamon evenly over the honey-coated apricots, ensuring a light but complete coverage to enhance the natural sweetness.
- Scatter sliced almonds over each apricot half, pressing them gently into the honey to help them adhere during baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the apricots are soft, slightly caramelized, and the almonds are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes to allow the honey to set slightly and prevent burning.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves just before serving to add a bright, herbal note to the dessert.
- Serve warm as a dessert, potentially accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
Tips
- Choose ripe but firm apricots for the best texture and flavor. They should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy.
- Use high-quality honey for the most robust taste - raw, local honey works wonderfully in this recipe.
- For extra richness, consider toasting the almonds lightly before sprinkling them over the apricots to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Keep a close eye on the apricots during the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent over-caramelization and burning.
- This dessert is incredibly versatile - serve it warm with vanilla ice cream, Greek yogurt, or even as a topping for morning oatmeal.
- If fresh mint isn't available, a light dusting of extra cinnamon or a small drizzle of additional honey can provide a beautiful finishing touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 86kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
