Delight in the Cozy Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake

From the very first time I dug into a warm, fragrant Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake, I knew I’d stumbled onto something truly special. This is the kind of dish that’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, with bright ginger notes weaving perfectly through tender, spiced apples. I still remember the exact moment in my kitchen when that spicy-sweet aroma filled the air — I’d finally cracked what makes this Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake unforgettable. It’s that balance of cozy, comforting spices with just the right zing of fresh ginger that takes it beyond your typical holiday apple dessert.

What sets this Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake apart for me is how it brings the warmth of holiday flavors without feeling heavy or complicated. I love playing with simple, accessible ingredients to create something that feels like a celebration every time it comes out of the oven. The ginger apple crisp vibes give it a playful twist that’s a delight to both make and eat. If you’ve been hunting for a spiced apple casserole that’s packed with personality but easy enough for an everyday treat, this is your new go-to.

I can’t wait for you to try this Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake. Grab your favorite baking dish, pull out some crisp apples, and let’s make a recipe that’s as fun as it is flavorful. Trust me, from the first golden spoonful, you’ll be hooked—just like I was.

Gather These Ingredients:

This Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake comes together with pantry staples and a few flavor heroes that make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

  • 6 medium apples (about 3 pounds), peeled and sliced – I prefer a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for that perfect sweet-tart combo
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated – this brings that signature zing to your Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed – for warmth and caramel notes
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – the classic warm apple spice everyone loves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – adds a subtle, cozy depth
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves – optional but fantastic for that holiday apple dessert vibe
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – helps thicken the juices in this spiced apple casserole
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – a sweet, soft balancing note
  • Pinch of salt – to round out flavors
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats – for a crispy, golden topping with a bit of texture
  • 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans – adds crunch and a nutty contrast
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes – the key to melty, golden topping magic

Ingredients for Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake with apples, ginger, brown sugar, spices, oats, nuts, and butter

Want to switch things up in your Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake? Try swapping out walnuts for toasted coconut flakes or using maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different kind of warmth. You can find fresh ginger in most produce sections, but if you’re feeling adventurous, pick up some crystallized ginger in the international aisle for a sweeter zing surprise.

I always reach for fresh Granny Smith apples—they hold their shape beautifully and add that nice tart pop to this warm apple spices combo. If you’re short on time, peeling apples with a speed peeler really cuts down prep and keeps everything tidy.

Once you have these ingredients ready, the kitchen magic can begin!

Let’s Make This Happen!

Making your own Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake is like a fun flavor adventure you can dive into any day. And trust me, it comes together faster than you’d guess—it takes about 50 minutes from start to finish.

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Butter an 8×8-inch baking dish or something similar. This Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake will love a cozy home to bubble away in.

Step 2:

Toss your sliced apples in a big bowl with fresh ginger, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, flour, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. This is the moment the warm apple spices unite to create that irresistible aroma. Make sure every apple slice is coated with this cozy mixture.

Step 3:

Pour your spiced apples into the prepared baking dish and spread them out evenly. The ginger apple crisp essence is already sneaking through here!

Step 4:

Mix your oats, walnuts, and butter cubes in a separate bowl until crumbly. This topping is the crunch party your holiday apple dessert deserves.

Step 5:

Sprinkle the buttery oat topping evenly over your apple base. This is the part where your Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake starts flirting with golden perfection.

Step 6:

Pop the whole dish into the oven and bake for about 40 minutes. Keep an eye on that topping—it should be golden and crispy, with the apple filling bubbling gently underneath.

Pro tip: If your Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake looks like it’s browning too fast, tent it with foil halfway through baking. We’re after tender apples and a perfect crunchy top.

Step 7:

When you pull it out, let it cool for about 10 minutes. You’ll know your Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake is ready when the juices are thickened and the aroma fills your kitchen with cozy holiday vibes.

This recipe has been tested with lots of apple varieties and topping tweaks, but the combination I’m sharing here is the crowd favorite and recipe keeper. While it’s baking, have a taste of the leftover spiced apple mix or sip on a cup of tea—my Turmeric Ginger Chicken Noodle Soup is a great warm-up companion on a chilly day!

Serving Ideas & Pairings!

Now that your Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake is baked to golden glory, it’s time for the fun part—eating it! My favorite way to dig into this warm apple spices creation is with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess contrasts the spicy, tart apples perfectly.

Golden Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake served with vanilla ice cream and sprinkled nuts

This Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake pairs beautifully with a cup of mulled cider or a cozy chai latte. It also mingles well alongside savory dishes like roasted pork or turkey for a sweet-savory holiday spread.

Hosting a crowd? Serve this as a comforting side or delightful dessert. Add a sprinkle of extra chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey for a gorgeous finish. Leftovers? They make an incredible breakfast topping for oatmeal or pancakes the next day.

For call-out inspiration, this recipe shares warm apple dessert vibes with My Gingerbread Pear Apple Crisp is an extra warm and cozy crisp … and Apple Pear Crisp with Gingerbread Crumble for a fragrant spin.

If you want a recipe with similar fun twists, take a peek at this TikTok Baked Feta Pasta with Pesto for an unexpected flavor adventure.

People often tell me their kitchens smell like holiday magic after baking this. Your guests will likely ask for the recipe—and you’ll have it ready to share with a grin.

Common Questions About This Recipe

Q: Can I prep this Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble your apple mixture and crumb topping the night before, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake it fresh. It’s a great way to save time and still get that fresh-from-the-oven flavor.

Q: What apples work best here?

I’ve tested several, and a combo of Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness works wonders. If you only have one kind, just pick a firm apple that holds up to baking.

Q: Can I make this Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake gluten-free?

Definitely. Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blends. For the oat topping, make sure to get certified gluten-free oats. The texture shifts a bit but stays just as delicious.

Q: What if I want a nut-free version?

Skip the walnuts or pecans and add more oats or try coconut flakes for crunch. I have friends who loved that twist!

Q: How do I scale this Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake recipe up or down?

It’s simple. Just adjust apple quantities and topping ingredients proportionally and use a larger or smaller baking dish as needed. Cooking time can change slightly, so watch until bubbling and topping golden.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Freeze baked portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm up gently for a quick, comforting snack.

Q: What’s a good savory pairing with this Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake?

Roasted pork chops or a lightly spiced turkey work beautifully—both balance the warm apple spices perfectly. If you want a full dinner plan, consider my Turmeric Ginger Chicken Noodle Soup for the first course.

If you’re a crisp fan, you might enjoy this Chai Spice Apple Crisp – Baker by Nature, which brings a similar warm spice kick.

My Final Take

This Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake has earned its forever spot in my recipe box because it hits all the right notes: vibrant ginger, cozy cinnamon, a crunchy oat topping, and apples that taste like a warm holiday hug. Each variation I test yields new favorites, but the classic combo I’m sharing here is always the crowd favorite.

My Top Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake Tips:

  • Use fresh ginger for the brightest zing—it’s a game changer.
  • Mix apple varieties for complex sweetness and tartness.
  • Don’t rush the bake; the topping needs time to get that golden crunch.

Among my tested variations, I’ve played with adding a splash of bourbon to the filling (hello, grown-up twist) and swapping out pecans for toasted coconut flakes for a tropical vibe. The classic version still scores the most compliments, especially when paired with vanilla bean ice cream.

This recipe is special to me because it embraces bold flavors that are approachable and fun to make—no fuss, just genuine joy in the kitchen.

Dive in and make this Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake one of your favorite holiday treats or everyday comfort foods. I promise, every bite is worth that cozy kitchen time!

For more flavor-packed recipes, peek at the Jam Donut Focaccia that’s an irresistible bakery-style treat, or if you want a warm soup companion, check out my Turmeric Ginger Chicken Noodle Soup.

And if you love playful, bold dishes with unexpected twists, my TikTok Baked Feta Pasta with Pesto is perfect to keep your cooking adventures rolling.

Happy baking, dear food lovers!

Print

Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake

This Ginger-Spiced Apple Holiday Bake combines tender apples with warm ginger and cinnamon spices for a comforting seasonal dessert that’s perfect for festive gatherings.

  • Author: Avarae Jensen
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, brown sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, fresh grated ginger, and lemon juice. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
  3. Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, rolled oats, chopped walnuts, and salt to create the topping.
  5. Sprinkle the oat and walnut mixture evenly over the apples.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
  7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For an extra indulgent treat, serve warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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