Creating delicious Pumpkin-Pie-Stuffed Apples is easy when you follow these clear steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Apples: Wash and core the apples, ensuring to make a deep cavity but leave the bottom intact for stuffing.
3. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, ginger, oats, and nuts (if using). Stir until hearty and well-blended.
4. Stuff the Apples: Fill each apple with the pumpkin mixture until heaping over the top. Place the stuffed apples into the greased baking dish.
5. Add Maple Syrup: Drizzle maple syrup over the filled apples for extra sweetness if desired.
6. Bake in the Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until apples are tender.
7. Check for Doneness: Use a fork to test the softness of the apples. They should be easy to pierce but not falling apart.
8. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let the apples cool for about 10 minutes. This will enhance the flavors and allow for safer handling.
9. Serve: Place each stuffed apple on a dessert plate and top with whipped cream if desired.

By following these steps, you’ll create a mouthwatering dessert that showcases the season’s best flavors!