If you like firmer apples, leave the apples out of the oven for the first 20-30 minutes of cooking time. I waited to peel, core, and cube my apples until 10 minutes before I was ready to bake them. Pull the baking sheet out of the oven and gently stir in the apples. Use a little more melted coconut oil if need be, then add a little more salt, thyme, and pepper to your liking! Pop the baking sheet back into the oven and cook for the remaining 10-20 minutes, or until you get the sweet potatoes as soft as you like them.