Couscous-stuffed apples with honey syrup

Couscous-stuffed apples with honey syrup combine tender baked apples with a spiced couscous filling, creating a unique dessert. The flavors of nuts, warm spices, and honey syrup make this dish perfect for any occasion.

05 Feb 2026
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 35 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp walnuts
1/3 cup couscous
1 cup water
1 tbsp almonds
2 tbsp butter
2 tsp brown sugar
1 tbsp currants
1 tsp cinnamon
4 apples
1/2 cup honey
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp cardamom
1 cinnamon stick

Couscous-stuffed apples with honey syrup is a delightful and nutritious dessert that combines tender baked apples with a deliciously spiced couscous filling. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and provides a unique twist to the traditional baked apple. It is easy to prepare and involves a wonderful blend of flavors from nuts, currants, and warm spices.

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Chop the walnuts and almonds into small pieces.

2. Cook the Couscous:
- Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan.
- Once boiling, remove from heat, add the couscous, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes or until the couscous has absorbed the water.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork once ready.

3. Make the Filling:
- In a medium pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the chopped walnuts and almonds, and sauté until lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked couscous, brown sugar, currants, and ground cinnamon to the pan. Mix well to combine.
- Let the mixture cook for another 2 minutes, then set aside.

4. Prepare the Apples:
- Wash the apples and cut off the tops as if you were making a lid. Set these lids aside for later use.
- Carefully scoop out the core and seeds from each apple using a spoon or an apple corer, creating a hollow center for the filling.

5. Fill and Bake the Apples:
- Stuff each hollowed apple with the couscous mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
- Place the apple lids back on top of each stuffed apple.
- Arrange the stuffed apples in a baking dish.

6. Prepare the Honey Syrup:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 tablespoon of butter, ground cardamom, and the cinnamon stick.
- Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth and well incorporated, roughly 3-4 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick before using.

7. Bake:
- Pour the honey syrup over the apples in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and cooked through.

8. Serve:
- Remove the baked apples from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Drizzle additional honey syrup from the baking dish over each apple before serving.

Enjoy your warm, aromatic couscous-stuffed apples with a delightful honey syrup!

Couscous-stuffed apples with honey syrup is a versatile and satisfying dessert that impresses with its delightful combination of textures and flavors. Whether you're serving this dish for a special event or enjoying it as a cozy treat at home, it's sure to be a hit with both children and adults alike. With just a few simple steps, you can create a deliciously memorable dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of apples and the heartiness of couscous.

Couscous-stuffed apples with honey syrup FAQ:

What is the best type of apple to use for this recipe?

Crispy and tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well for stuffing, as they hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the filling.

How can I store leftover couscous-stuffed apples?

Store any leftover apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.

Can I use quinoa instead of couscous?

Yes, you can substitute quinoa for couscous. Prepare it according to package instructions, using the same water-to-quinoa ratio (usually 2:1). This will also make the dish gluten-free.

How do I know when the apples are done baking?

The apples are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. This typically takes 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

What can I use instead of honey for a vegan option?

You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for honey in the syrup to make this dessert vegan-friendly.

Tips:

- Choose firm apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to ensure they hold their shape during baking.

- For a different flavor profile, experiment with other dried fruits such as raisins or dried cranberries.

- If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce the amount of sugar and honey in the recipe.

- To save time, prepare the couscous filling while the apples are being prepped and cored.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 250kcal
Protein 2.28g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fiber 4.07g
Sugar 36g
Fat 9g

Couscous-stuffed apples with honey syrup