Bloomin’ Grilled Apples are a fun and tasty treat! These sweet apples are cut into flower shapes, brushed with cinnamon and sugar, and then grilled until they’re warm and soft.
They make a perfect dessert or snack! I love serving them with a scoop of ice cream on top—because who can resist that? Enjoy those warm gooey bites! 🍏✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are perfect for this recipe because they’re tart, which balances the sweetness of the sugar and caramel. Honeycrisp is another great choice for its sweetness and crunch. If you can’t find these, any firm apple like Fuji or Braeburn will work too.
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich flavor that complements the apples. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of maple syrup or honey for a similar taste, but it might lack the molasses depth.
Pecans: They add a nice crunch. If you’re allergic or don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds can easily substitute. For a nut-free version, simply skip them!
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought is fine for convenience, but homemade is always a treat! If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using a sugar-free caramel or even a drizzle of honey.
How Do You Create the Perfect “Bloom” Effect with Your Apples?
The “bloom” effect is what makes these grilled apples look impressive! To achieve this, start by carefully coring the apples without slicing all the way through. Here’s how:
- Cut the apples into quarters, leaving the base intact. This means you only cut about three-quarters of the way down.
- Hold the apple together as you slice to maintain that blossom effect.
- Keep the slices evenly spaced to ensure each piece can fan out beautifully when cooked.
This technique allows the heat to penetrate and caramelize the insides perfectly while still presenting a stunning display on your plate!
How to Make Bloomin’ Grilled Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Apples:
- 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 4 scoop(s) vanilla ice cream
- Aluminum foil
- Optional: whipped cream for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to grill. So in total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. A quick and sweet treat that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your apples cook evenly and get that nice grilled flavor.
2. Prepare the Apples:
Wash the apples under cold water and then carefully core them. Slice each apple into quarters, but don’t cut all the way through the bottom. You want the quarters to stay attached at the base, creating a beautiful bloom effect where the apple petals fan out.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans. Mix well to combine all the flavors. This sweet mixture is what will make your apples extra delicious!
4. Stuff the Apples:
Gently spread the sugar-pecan mixture between each slice of the apple and on top. Make sure to pack it in a bit so the flavors infuse while they cook.
5. Add Caramel Sauce:
Drizzle some caramel sauce over your stuffed apples, letting it seep into those cuts you made earlier. This will add a sticky, sweet goodness as they grill.
6. Wrap the Apples:
Take some aluminum foil and wrap each apple individually. Make sure to seal them tightly to keep the heat in while they cook.
7. Grill the Apples:
Place the wrapped apples directly on the grill. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender. Be careful when handling them; they will be hot!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the apples from the grill using tongs. Unwrap them and place them onto a serving dish. Top each apple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a generous drizzle of caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of chopped pecans. If you like, add whipped cream on top for extra creaminess and serve immediately while they’re warm. Enjoy your delightful treat!
Can I Use Different Varieties of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, feel free to use any firm apples like Fuji or Braeburn. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples may require less brown sugar, so adjust to taste!
Can I Prepare These Apples in Advance?
Yes! You can core and slice the apples a few hours ahead of time. Just store them in a bowl of water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. Wrap the apples in foil just before grilling for the best results!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftover grilled apples, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Pecans?
No pecans on hand? No problem! You can substitute them with chopped walnuts, almonds, or even granola for an added crunch. Just make sure to keep allergies in mind when serving.
