Date-Stuffed Apples

INGREDIENTS

4 large apples
1/3 cup pitted dates, chopped
2 Tbsp granola
2 Tbsp walnuts, chopped
2 Tbsp demerara sugar
4 tsp butter, melted
2 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp orange peel, grated
1/8 tsp cinnamon
4 Tbsp orange juice
1/4 cup water
Maple syrup, optional

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Core the apples and set in a baking dish.

Combine remaining ingredients except for orange juice, water, and maple syrup. Divide the mixture evenly amongst the four apples, filling the cavities.

Combine the orange juice with the water and pour around the apples. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking about 15 minutes longer, or until apples are tender when pierced with a fork. Serve warm or cold, drizzled with maple syrup if desired.