This sweet and savory Baked Beans with Apples recipe is a cozy, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for gatherings or everyday dinners. I love how the tartness of fresh apples balances out the rich, sticky barbecue sauce and brown sugar. It’s hearty, simple to prepare, and always hits the spot when I’m craving something comforting and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like how this dish comes together with just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The apples soften as they bake, releasing just enough juice to mingle with the beans and create a naturally sweet glaze. The longer baking time deepens the flavor and gives the sauce a beautifully thick texture. It’s one of those set-it-and-forget-it recipes that delivers big on taste without needing much attention.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 (16 oz) cans baked beans
2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced
1⅓ cups barbecue sauce
1 cup brown sugar
¼ cup raisins (optional)
Directions
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a 9×13‑inch baking dish, I mix together the baked beans, diced apples, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and raisins, if I’m using them.
I bake everything uncovered for 90 minutes, giving it a stir now and then so the flavors come together and the sauce thickens nicely.
Once it’s out of the oven, I let it rest for a few minutes so the texture settles before I serve it.
Servings and timing
Yield: 12 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Variations
This dish is flexible, and I enjoy switching it up depending on what I have available:
I swap the raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates when I want a different kind of sweetness.
A pinch of smoked paprika adds a subtle depth that works really well with the barbecue sauce.
Sometimes I drizzle in a little maple syrup for a richer, more complex sweetness.
When I want a hint of heat, I stir in a small amount of chili powder or hot sauce.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or warm it in the oven at 300°F until it’s hot throughout. If the sauce thickens too much after chilling, I stir in a splash of water or a bit more barbecue sauce to loosen it back up.
FAQs
What kind of apples work best?
I usually go for tart varieties like Granny Smith because they hold their shape and contrast nicely with the sweet sauce.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, I sometimes use maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
Do I have to peel the apples?
I prefer to peel them because it gives the dish a softer, smoother texture, but leaving the peel on works too if I want more texture.
Can I make this in advance?
Definitely. I often bake it the day before, store it in the fridge, and just reheat before serving. The flavors deepen overnight.
What should I serve this with?
I like serving it with cornbread, grilled vegetables, or over rice for a filling, well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
This Baked Beans with Apples recipe is a go-to for when I want something hearty, flavorful, and easy to put together. The apples bring a fresh twist, and the long baking time creates a thick, comforting sauce that wraps everything in flavor. It’s one of those dishes that always disappears fast—especially once it’s had a chance to rest and soak up all those delicious juices.
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