These apples not only taste divine but also look impressive when they bloom open, showcasing a delicious caramel-filled center. It’s like magic happening right in your kitchen! Most of the time, I’m a fan of keeping things simple, and when you can do that with an easy apple recipe, it’s a win. Plus, the fragrance of cinnamon and caramel wafting through the air is an irresistible invitation to gather everyone around the table.
Cooking this dish reminds me of the times when I used to watch my mom create wonder in the kitchen with just a handful of ingredients. It’s an opportunity to pass on the love for cooking to my own family. These warm, soft apples paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce make the perfect ending to any meal. You’d swear it was a laborious dish seeing how the apples come out transformed, but that’s the magic of it—deceptively simple but utterly scrumptious.
So, why not bring a bit of that magic into your home? It’s a recipe even novice bakers can tackle, and who doesn’t love a dessert that doubles as a family-friendly activity? If you’re looking for the perfect way to satisfy a sweet tooth while also warming your home and family with love, this Bloomin’ Apples recipe is just what you need.
How to Make Bloomin’ Apples
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Ingredients
- 4 apples
- 1 tbsp. packed brown sugar
- 1 tbsp. granulated sugar
- 8 chewy caramel squares
- 4 tbsp. melted butter
- cooking spray
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream, for serving
- Caramel sauce, for drizzling
Directions
- First, set your oven to 375°F and apply a light coat of cooking spray to a medium-sized baking dish. In a small bowl, blend together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Whisk until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Slice off the tops of each apple and use an apple corer to remove the core. If there are any bits left over, a small spoon will help to scoop them out. Carefully make two circular cuts in each apple using a paring knife.
- Turn the apples cut-side down on a chopping board and slice them horizontally, ensuring you don’t cut through the core center.
- Transfer the cut apples into your prepared baking dish. Fill each apple’s center with two caramel squares, then generously coat them with the buttery sugar mixture. Slide the dish into the oven and bake until the apples are tender, roughly 30 minutes.
- Once baked, serve each bloomin’ apple warm, complemented with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Storing Suggestion
If you have any leftovers, these apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or until heated through.
Cooking Tips
Adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon can give an extra spice dimension to your bloomin’ apples. For a less sweet option, feel free to reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. Melted dark chocolate chips drizzled over the top can transform these into a decadent dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Bloomin’ Apples pair beautifully with a scoop of Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream. You can also try pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture. For a beverage, a warm apple cider or a cup of hot tea makes a perfect companion.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of caramel squares, substitute them with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce. For a healthier twist, replace brown sugar with coconut sugar. You can also try different apple varieties; Granny Smith for a tart flavor, or Honeycrisp for a sweeter taste.
Seasonal Variations
In the fall, adding pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist can be delightful. During the summer, serving these with a scoop of lemon sorbet can create a refreshing variation. In winter, a touch of ginger can add a warm, spicy flavor. Experiment with what’s fresh each season!
Allergen Information
This recipe includes dairy ingredients like butter and ice cream. To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based butter alternative and serve with dairy-free ice cream. Ensure caramel squares do not contain allergens if substituting. Always check labels for ingredient allergies.
FAQ
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use your preferred type of apples. While varieties like Honeycrisp provide a sweet-tart flavor, Granny Smith apples offer a more tangy taste. Explore different kinds to find what suits your taste buds best.
What can I do if I don’t have an apple corer?
If you don’t have an apple corer, a teaspoon can be used to scoop out the core area. Alternatively, you can also use a small paring knife; though it may be more time-consuming, it still does the trick.
Can I prepare these apples in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the apples in advance. Core and slice the apples and store them in the fridge for up to a few hours. Complete the baking and serve them fresh to ensure optimal taste and texture.
Can these bloomin’ apples be made without sugar?
It’s possible to make a low-sugar version by substituting sugar with a sweetener like Stevia or reducing the amount of sugar used. You can emphasize the natural sweetness of the apples by using naturally sweet apple varieties like Fuji or Gala.
How can I ensure the apples don’t dry out in the oven?
To prevent the apples from drying out, ensure they are generously coated with the butter and sugar mixture. Baking them in a covered dish or occasionally checking to baste with additional mixture can also help retain moisture.
What other toppings can I add to enhance the dish?
Feel free to add toppings like crushed nuts, raisins, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast. Another idea is adding chopped chocolates or powdered sugar on top just before serving to add an extra layer of flavor.
Bloomin' Apples
Ingredients
- 4 apples
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 8 chewy caramel squares
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 cooking spray
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream for serving
- caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly coat a medium baking dish with cooking spray. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, sugars, and cinnamon. Whisk until blended.
- Slice the top of each apple off and use a corer to extract the core. If needed, scoop out any remnants with a small spoon. Then make two circular cuts in the apple using a paring knife.
- Place the apple cut side down on a cutting board and slice horizontally, being cautious not to cut through the core.
- Arrange the sliced apples in your baking dish. Stuff each apple with two caramel squares, then brush the buttery mixture over them. Bake in the oven until the apples become tender, which should take about 30 minutes.
- Serve them warm alongside a scoop of ice cream and drizzle with some caramel sauce for a delightful finish. Enjoy!
