Bloomin’ Grilled Apples are a fun twist on a classic treat! You start with fresh apples, cut them into a flower shape, and grill them until they’re warm and tender.
These apples are sweet, fruity, and perfect for a picnic or dessert. I like to serve mine with a scoop of ice cream on top—yum! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Honeycrisp apples offer sweetness and a nice crunch, while Granny Smith adds a tart flavor. If those aren’t available, Fuji or Gala apples work as good substitutes. I enjoy a mix of different types for a balance of flavors!
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich sweetness. If you’re out, you can use regular white sugar, though it won’t be as deep in flavor. I also like to use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Butter: The melted butter helps to infuse flavor while keeping the apples moist. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute can work nicely. I often use coconut oil for a fun twist!
Pecans: These nuts contribute a wonderful crunch and flavor. If you’re allergic or simply prefer another nut, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes. I love the buttery flavor of pecans, but walnuts offer a nice earthy taste too!
How Do I Grill Apples Perfectly?
Grilling apples can seem tricky, but it’s all about preparation and temperature! To start, ensure the apples are cored and sliced without cutting all the way through. This keeps the filling secure and the apples intact when grilling.
- Wrap the apples tightly in foil to keep the steam in, which helps them cook evenly and become tender.
- Grill over medium heat and be patient! Cooking for about 20-25 minutes gives the apples time to soften beautifully.
- Check by piercing with a fork; they should yield easily but still hold form.
By following these tips, you’ll have tasty grilled apples ready to impress your family or friends! Enjoy them warm with caramel and ice cream for a cozy treat.
How to Make Bloomin’ Grilled Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Apples:
- 2 large apples (e.g., Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
For Serving (Optional):
- Vanilla ice cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to grill. So, in about 35 minutes, you’ll have warm, tasty Bloomin’ Grilled Apples ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure the apples cook evenly and get that nice grilled flavor.
2. Prepare the Apples:
Wash the apples thoroughly to remove any dirt. Next, core each apple carefully, making sure to leave the bottom intact. This is important, as it helps the apples hold the yummy filling.
3. Slice the Apples:
Using a sharp knife, slice each apple down to the core but don’t cut through the bottom. Aim for about 8 sections per apple, creating a blooming effect.
4. Add Flavor:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Pour the melted butter over the apples and then sprinkle the sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly into the slices to add flavor.
5. Stuff with Pecans:
Now, stuff the chopped pecans into the sliced sections of the apples. This will give a delightful crunch and taste!
6. Wrap the Apples:
Wrap each prepared apple in aluminum foil, sealing them tightly to keep all the delicious juices inside while they cook.
7. Grill the Apples:
Place the foil-wrapped apples on the grill. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until you can easily pierce the apples with a fork. The heat will soften them perfectly!
8. Unwrap and Serve:
Carefully remove the apples from the grill and unwrap them. Place each grilled apple on a serving plate, ready for drizzling!
9. Add the Final Touches:
Drizzle warm caramel sauce generously over the top of each apple. For an extra treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’d like!
10. Enjoy Your Dessert!
Serve the Bloomin’ Grilled Apples immediately and enjoy this delicious treat with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are great choices for their sweetness and tartness, you can use any firm apples like Fuji, Braeburn, or even Cortland. Just ensure they hold their shape while grilling for the best results!
What If I Don’t Have Pecans on Hand?
No problem! You can easily substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even skip the nuts entirely if you prefer. If you want a little crunch without nuts, try adding granola or crushed crackers instead!
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Apples?
If you have leftovers, let them cool and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving, drizzling a bit more caramel to freshen them up!
Can I Make These Apples in the Oven Instead of on the Grill?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the wrapped apples on a baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender, checking with a fork. Follow the same finishing steps with caramel sauce and ice cream!
