Bloomin’ Grilled Apples are a fun, tasty treat that’s perfect for summer cookouts! Just slice the apples and pop them on the grill, letting them get nice and warm and juicy.
These apples smell incredible as they cook, filling the air with a sweet aroma. Serve them with a scoop of ice cream on top—trust me, it’s a great way to impress friends and family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for this dish due to their firm texture and tart sweetness. If they’re not available, Fuji or Gala apples can make a lovely alternative.
Cinnamon: The warm flavor of cinnamon is key here. You can substitute it with nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a different twist. Just remember to adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Pecans: Chopped pecans add a nice crunch. If you’re allergic or don’t have pecans, try walnuts or almonds instead for a similar texture without sacrificing flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is great for controlling the overall saltiness. If you’re vegan, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel is fine, but homemade is even better if you have time. You could also use chocolate sauce for a different sweet touch if caramel isn’t your favorite.
How Do I Get the Perfect “Bloom” Effect on My Apples?
Creating a bloom effect is crucial for this recipe, as it showcases the filling beautifully. Here’s how to do it:
- First, wash the apples and remove the core carefully with a knife or corer. Don’t cut through the bottom! Leave about half an inch at the bottom to hold the ingredients.
- Next, make crisscross cuts down the sides of the apple, but again, do not cut all the way through.
- Gently pull the apple slices apart slightly to create space for the filling.
Remember, taking your time during this step will help you achieve that impressive bloom and make your dessert look tempting!
How to Make Bloomin’ Grilled Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bloomin’ Grilled Apples:
- 4 large apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup pecans, chopped
- 4 tbsp butter (unsalted)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- Aluminum foil (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation and about 20-25 minutes on the grill, making the total time around 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and yummy dessert that’s perfect for a warm day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to a medium heat. This is key to ensure that your apples cook evenly and come out perfectly tender!
2. Prepare the Apples:
Wash the apples thoroughly. Carefully remove the core from each apple, but be sure not to cut all the way through the bottom. This will help create a lovely blooming effect when they grill.
3. Slice the Apples:
Using a knife, make crisscross slices on the top of each apple, again being cautious not to slice all the way through. This gives the apples a beautiful look while also allowing the flavors to seep in.
4. Mix the Cinnamon and Sugar:
In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and brown sugar. Mix them together until well blended. This will add a warm, sweet flavor to your apples!
5. Add the Filling:
Gently open up the sliced sections of the apples and generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture inside the cuts. Then, tuck some chopped pecans into the layers for an extra crunch.
6. Add Butter:
Take a tablespoon of butter and place it inside each hollowed apple. This will melt during grilling, keeping the apples moist and adding delicious flavor.
7. Wrap the Apples:
Wrap each apple tightly in aluminum foil, making sure they are completely sealed. This will trap the heat and steam while the apples cook on the grill.
8. Grill the Apples:
Place the wrapped apples directly on the grill. Allow them to cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on them to ensure they cook evenly!
9. Unwrap and Serve:
Once the apples are done, carefully remove them from the grill and unwrap the foil—watch out for steam! Drizzle the warm apples with caramel sauce for a sweet touch.
10. Enjoy Your Treat:
Serve the Bloomin’ Grilled Apples warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, feel free to sprinkle some additional chopped pecans on top. Enjoy your sweet and gooey dessert!
Can I Use Other Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can use any firm apples like Fuji, Braeburn, or Pink Lady. Just make sure they hold their shape during grilling for the best presentation and texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make Bloomin’ Grilled Apples vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use a vegan caramel sauce. There are many store-bought options available, or you can easily make your own with coconut milk and brown sugar!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Apples?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to a minute, or warm them up on the grill again for a few minutes until heated through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the apples by core and slicing them the day before and keep them wrapped in the fridge. When you’re ready to grill, just follow the remaining steps. You may want to add a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
