Baked Apple Halva (Fusion Dessert)
A delightful fusion dessert combining the rich, nutty flavors of traditional halva with the soft, sweet tanginess of baked apples.
Time Overview
Task Time Required
Preparation 20 minutes
Baking 35–40 minutes
Cooling & Serving 10 minutes
Total Time ~1 hour 10 mins
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Apples:
4 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
2 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning
For the Halva-style Filling:
½ cup semolina (suji)
3 tbsp ghee or unsalted
¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1 cup milk (or plant-based milk for vegan)
¼ tsp ground cardamom
2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, cashews)
1 tbsp raisins or chopped dates (optional
A pinch of saffron (optional, soaked in 1 tbsp warm milk)
Rosewater (few drops, optional
Topping:
Chopped pistachios or walnuts
Drizzle of honey or maple syrup (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Apples
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Wash apples and slice off the top (~1/2 inch) to form a lid.
Carefully core each apple using a corer or knife, removing seeds and some flesh to create a cavity.
Rub lemon juice inside and around apples to prevent browning.
Place apples upright in a greased baking dish. 2. Make Halva Filling
Heat ghee/butter in a nonstick pan on medium heat.
Add semolina and roast for 5–7 minutes, stirring constantly until golden and aromatic.
Slowly add milk (and saffron if using), stirring well to avoid lumps.
Add sugar, cardamom, and stir until thick.
Mix in nuts, raisins, and rosewater. Cook until mixture leaves the sides of the pan ( more minutes).
Let it cool slightly.
3. Fill and Bake Apples
Spoon the warm halva mixture into each apple cavity.
Place the apple lids back on top (optional).
Cover dish with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until apples are tender.
Uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes for a slight golden top.
4. Cool and Serve
Let apples rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Drizzle with honey/maple syrup and sprinkle pistachios.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or as-is.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Replace:
Ghee with coconut oil or vegan butter
Milk with almond, oat, or soy milk
Honey with maple syrup Which apple variety is best?
Use firm apples like:
Granny Smith (tart, holds shape well)
Honeycrisp or Fuji (sweet and crisp)
Avoid mealy varieties like Red Delicious.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes! You can:
Make the halva filling ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Assemble and bake when ready, or
Bake the full dessert and reheat gently before serving.How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in oven (covered) at 160°C (325°F) for 10–12 minutes.
Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely. Consider:
Orange zest
A splash of brandy or rum
Clove or nutmeg