Melda Holt’s Carrot and Apple Bake: A Delightful Southern Classic with a Unique Twist
If youโre on the hunt for a recipe that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the hearty goodness of carrots, look no further than Melda Holtโs Carrot and Apple Bake. This dish, with its roots possibly stretching back to a Southern Living magazine or cookbook, is both nostalgic and delicious. Itโs a great way to bring a touch of Southern charm to your table. With a total preparation and cooking time of just under an hour, this bake is a convenient yet special addition to any meal.
Hereโs a detailed guide to creating this scrumptious bake that perfectly melds the flavors of tender carrots and crisp apples with a touch of spice and sweetness.
Ingredients
- 6 medium carrots: peeled and sliced
- 1 large apple: sliced (your favorite variety, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup butter: cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: packed
- 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice
Instructions
Preparation Steps
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Peel and Cook the Carrots:
Begin by peeling the carrots to remove the outer skin. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the carrots until they are tender, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Once theyโre cooked through, drain them well. -
Slice the Carrots:
Once the carrots are cool enough to handle, slice them into 1/2 inch thick rounds. This ensures that they will cook evenly and blend well with the apples in the bake. -
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Spray a 1 1/2-quart baking dish with vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking. This step is essential to make sure that your bake comes out easily and cleanly. -
Combine Carrots and Apples:
Arrange the sliced carrots and apples in the prepared baking dish. You want them to be evenly distributed so that every bite has a good mix of both ingredients. -
Add Sweeteners and Spice:
Sprinkle the white sugar and brown sugar evenly over the carrots and apples. Follow this with a sprinkling of apple pie spice. The combination of sugars will create a delightful caramelized layer, while the apple pie spice adds a warm, aromatic touch. -
Dot with Butter:
Scatter small pieces of butter over the top of the mixture. As the bake cooks, the butter will melt and infuse the dish with a rich, creamy flavor. -
Bake the Dish:
Place the baking dish in an oven preheated to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes. The dish is ready when the apples and carrots are tender and have caramelized slightly on top.
Serving Suggestions
This Carrot and Apple Bake makes a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a hearty vegetarian main dish. The sweet and spiced flavors are sure to complement any meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 203.8
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.9 g
- Cholesterol: 20.3 mg
- Sodium: 108.5 mg
- Carbohydrates: 34.7 g
- Fiber: 3.8 g
- Sugar: 28.3 g
- Protein: 0.9 g
This recipe yields 6 servings, making it a perfect option for a family dinner or a small gathering. Enjoy the simplicity and heartiness of this lovely Southern-inspired bake, a dish that might just become a favorite in your household.
Tips for Success
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Adjusting Sweetness: Depending on your taste preference and the sweetness of your apples, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar. Feel free to reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute if desired.
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Spice Variations: If youโre not a fan of apple pie spice, you can experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
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Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish a day in advance and bake it just before serving. This can be a great time-saver for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Enjoy making Melda Holtโs Carrot and Apple Bake, a recipe that brings together the best of both fruits and vegetables in a comforting and flavorful dish. ๐๐๐ฅ
