Bloomin Grilled Apples Treat

This Bloomin' Grilled Apples recipe transforms ordinary apples into a spectacular dessert that combines warm spices, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans. The presentation is as impressive as the taste, making it perfect for backyard gatherings or a cozy evening treat.

I discovered this recipe during an autumn camping trip when we wanted something special for dessert but had limited cooking equipment. The delighted expressions when I unveiled these apples around the campfire made them an instant tradition for our outdoor adventures.

Ingredients

• Apples: choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith that hold their shape when cooked
• Melted butter: creates a rich base and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere perfectly
• Cinnamon sugar: adds warmth and that classic apple pie flavor without extra steps
• Caramel sauce: forms a molten center that gets wonderfully gooey when heated
• Chopped pecans: provide essential textural contrast and nutty depth
• Vanilla ice cream: the cold creamy sweetness against the warm spiced apples is absolutely essential

Step by Step Instructions

Core Preparation:

Slice off the top quarter of each apple to create a lid and expose the core area. Using a spoon with a relatively sharp edge, carefully scoop out the entire core including seeds and tough center. Take care not to puncture through the bottom of the apple as this will cause your caramel to leak during cooking.

Creating the Bloom:

Flip your cored apples upside down so they rest on their cut tops. With a sharp paring knife, make a circular cut around the middle of the apple going about halfway through the flesh. This creates the foundation for your bloom. Next, still with the apple upside down, make vertical cuts all around the apple from the bottom to your circular cut. Space these cuts about a quarter inch apart and be very careful not to cut all the way through at the top where your circular cut is.

Seasoning and Filling:

In a small bowl, thoroughly combine your melted butter and cinnamon sugar until well integrated. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the entire apple both inside and out with this mixture, ensuring it gets into all the cuts. Flip the apples right side up and fill the cored centers with caramel sauce, then sprinkle generously with chopped pecans, allowing some to fall into the caramel.

Grilling the Apples:

Wrap each prepared apple completely in aluminum foil, creating a secure but not tight package that allows some room for steam. Place the wrapped apples on a medium hot grill away from direct flames for approximately 15 minutes. The apples should become tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape.

Serving the Masterpiece:

Carefully unwrap each apple and transfer to individual serving plates. The cuts you made will have opened during cooking creating the blooming effect. Top immediately with a scoop of vanilla ice cream which will begin to melt beautifully over the warm apple. Finish with an additional drizzle of caramel sauce over the entire dessert.

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The very first time I made these blooming apples, my daughter declared them magic flowers and insisted we serve them at her birthday party the following month. Now they appear at nearly every family celebration, and I've never met anyone who wasn't impressed by both their appearance and flavor.

Indoor Cooking Method

If weather or equipment prevents grilling, these apples bake beautifully in your home oven. Prepare them exactly as directed, then place the foil wrapped apples in a baking dish to catch any potential caramel drips. Bake at 375°F for 18 to 22 minutes until tender. The results are nearly identical to the grilled version, though you might miss a subtle hint of smokiness that outdoor cooking provides.

Fruit Variations

While apples are the classic choice, this blooming technique works wonderfully with firm pears like Bosc or Anjou. For pears, reduce the cooking time by about 3 minutes as they tend to soften more quickly. You can also experiment with peaches during summer months, though they require more delicate handling and benefit from a quick 30 second blanch before coring to make the skin easier to cut through.

Make It Your Own

The basic blooming apple technique serves as a wonderful canvas for creativity. Try filling with dark chocolate pieces instead of caramel for a different flavor profile. Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the caramel for an adult version. During holiday season, incorporate cranberries and orange zest into the filling for festive color and complementary tartness. The possibilities are nearly endless once you master the basic technique.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prepare the apples for grilling?

Slice off the top ¼ of the apples, scoop out the cores, and make deep and narrow cuts around the apple without cutting through the bottom.

→ What is the best way to add flavor to the apples?

Brush the apples with melted butter mixed with cinnamon-sugar for a sweet, spiced flavor.

→ How long should I grill the apples?

Wrap the apples in foil and grill them for about 15 minutes until tender.

→ Can I use other nuts besides pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or your favorite nuts for a customizable flavor.

→ What can I serve with grilled apples?

Top the grilled apples with vanilla ice cream and drizzle with more caramel sauce for a complete dessert.