Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Wash the apples, slice off the tops to create caps, and carefully scoop out the cores and some flesh, reserving the pulp.
In a bowl, mash the reserved apple pulp with the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and star anise powder until well combined into a fragrant filling.
Stuff each apple generously with the mixture and replace the caps.
Arrange the apples in a baking dish. Pour in about half a glass of water—enhance with a splash of liquor like rum or brandy for extra depth if desired.
Bake for 40 minutes, basting occasionally with the pan juices to keep them moist and flavorful.
Serve warm on a platter for a delightful, aromatic treat straight from our tested kitchen favorite.
