Vanilla-Bean Baked Apples

Name: Vanilla-Bean Baked Apples
Yield: makes 4
Ingredients: 4 thick-skinned, mildly sweet apples, such as Rome Beauty or McIntosh; 3 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 large vanilla bean, halved lengthwise, seeds scraped and reserved; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons finely chopped toasted (page 53) pecans, plus more for sprinkling

January 26, 2012

Apples are very versatile—they work well with a variety of nuts, spices, and natural sweeteners. Rome Beauty apples hold up especially well during baking. Here, pecans, vanilla, and dark brown sugar create a winning combination of flavors in skillet-baked apples, irresistible served warm from the oven.

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