Starting from the apple stem, use a paring knife to remove cores from each apple, leaving the bottom of the apple intact to create a hollow bowl-like interior. Place each prepared apple into a 9x13 baking dish.
In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans. Spoon into the center of each apple to fill to top.
Place 1/2 tablespoon of butter on top of each apple center. Pour water into the bottom of the baking dish so that the apples sit in the water and steam.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until apples are soft. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Video
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Notes
Instead of cutting the core from the apple to create a bowl, some may find it easier to slice the apple in half. Then remove the core from each half and scoop out a little bowl like shape to hold your filling.