Last month I arrived at my pal Zoe’s house exhausted. That day I’d completed the 6 hour drive to the Bay Area from Los Angeles, then hadn’t stopped a beat before hosting the San Francisco launch party for Sage Living. Zoe had generously offered to put me up for the night, and I couldn’t wait to hit the mattress in her guest room. When I stepped into her home, however, I was greeted not only by Zoe but by our mutual friends Amy and Timothy—and also by the mouthwatering smell of butter, spice, and sweet fruit. “I made you a baked apple!” Amy announced as the trio ushered me to the table. They then proceeded to sit me down, entertain me for hours with laughter and conversation, and feed me the most satisfying healthy dessert I’ve ever had. They then packed me off to bed where I slept like a baby til morning.
When I asked Amy for the how-to on these divine baked apples, I wasn’t surprised when she told me it was something she whipped up off the top of her head. You see, Amy is the head chef and founder of both Venus Restaurant and Revival Bar + Kitchen, two celebrated Berkeley restaurants known for their commitment to sustainable yet sumptuous cuisine. She was more than happy, though, to refine the recipe and share it with us! Thus, I present to you the perfect alternative to all the sugary goodies you’re sure to encounter this holiday season. These warm, gooey treats taste so much like apple pie that you won’t miss the crust for a second—and you’ll leave the table feeling happy, not heavy. Serve them to friends, family, and especially to weary travelers. They’ll thank you for sure!