Name: Baked Apples with Pumpkin Pie Filling
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487919H34M53S
Total time: PT-487919H34M53S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 medium apples (cored); 1 cup pumpkin puree; ⅓ cup coconut milk; ⅜ cup maple syrup; ¾ cup oats; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp ground flax

Sweet, seasonal dessert: apples hollowed and filled with a creamy spiced pumpkin pie-style filling, baked until tender. This recipe is the perfect mix of cozy fall flavors, bringing together the natural sweetness of apples and the warm spice of pumpkin pie in a simple but satisfying treat. Baked Apples with Pumpkin Pie Filling

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dessert feels like autumn in every bite. The apples become tender and juicy while the pumpkin filling bakes into a creamy, spiced center. I like that it’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup, which makes it lighter than many desserts, yet still indulgent. I also enjoy how versatile it is—you can keep it dairy-free with coconut milk or make it richer with cream. It’s one of those desserts that looks impressive but takes very little effort.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 medium apples (cored)
1 cup pumpkin puree
⅓ cup coconut milk
⅜ cup maple syrup
¾ cup oats
2 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp pumpkin pie spice
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp butter
2 tbsp ground flax

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
Core the apples, removing enough flesh to create a cavity for the filling.
In a bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, coconut milk, maple syrup, oats, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, butter, and ground flax until smooth.
Spoon the filling evenly into the cored apples.
Place the filled apples in a baking dish and bake for about 25–30 minutes, until the apples are tender and the filling is set.
Allow to cool slightly before serving, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings. Prep time takes about 10 minutes, and baking requires 25–30 minutes. Altogether, I can have this dessert ready in around 35–40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes use Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious apples because they hold their shape well in the oven. If I want to make the filling richer, I swap the coconut milk with heavy cream. For crunch, I sprinkle nuts like pecans or walnuts over the top before baking. If I don’t have ground flax, I replace it with a small egg for thickening. And when I want an extra indulgence, I top the baked apples with ice cream or a drizzle of caramel.

storage/reheating

I store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to enjoy them again, I reheat them in the oven at 325 °F until warmed through, which keeps the texture nice. If I’m short on time, I warm them in the microwave for about a minute, though they soften more this way.

FAQs

Can I make these baked apples ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the apples and filling, then refrigerate them unbaked. When I’m ready, I just pop them into the oven.

Which apple varieties work best?

I like firm, slightly tart apples such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Golden Delicious because they hold their shape without collapsing.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, by using coconut milk and skipping butter (or replacing it with vegan butter), the recipe stays completely plant-based.

Can I freeze baked apples?

I don’t recommend freezing because the texture of the apples becomes mushy when thawed. They are best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

How can I make the filling sweeter?

If I want a sweeter filling, I add a bit more maple syrup or stir in a spoonful of brown sugar before baking.

Conclusion

This baked apple dessert with pumpkin pie filling is one of my favorite seasonal recipes. I love how it brings together the sweetness of apples and the warm, spiced creaminess of pumpkin in a dish that feels both comforting and elegant. Whether I serve it after dinner or enjoy it with my morning coffee, it’s a fall treat that never disappoints.