Bloomin’ Grilled Apples are like a warm hug on a plate! You take fresh apples, slice them open in a flower shape, and grill them until they are soft and caramelized. Yum!
These apples are great with a scoop of ice cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon. I love how they make my kitchen smell delicious while they cook—such a treat! 🍏✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using firm varieties like Honeycrisp for their sweetness or Granny Smith for a tart kick. If these aren’t available, Braeburn or Fuji are great options. Just make sure they are crisp for the best texture!
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a rich flavor, but you can use coconut sugar for a healthier alternative. Regular granulated sugar works too, though it won’t have the same depth.
Pecans: Pecans add a nice crunch, but walnuts or almonds can work in a pinch. If you need to avoid nuts altogether, just leave them out and maybe sprinkle on some oats for texture.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade is fantastic! If you want a lighter version, try drizzling honey or maple syrup instead.
Butter: For a dairy-free option, replace with margarine or coconut oil. It will still add that lovely moisture to the apples while they grill.
How Do I Grill Apples Without Them Falling Apart?
To keep your apples from losing their shape on the grill, follow these steps closely:
- When coring, stop short of cutting through the bottom. This helps maintain the apple’s structure.
- Make sure you only slice partially through the apples for the wedges. This creates that lovely ‘bloom’ look while keeping everything held together.
- Wrap each apple tightly in aluminum foil, ensuring there are no gaps. This traps steam and aids in cooking without falling apart.
- Check for tenderness after grilling. If they feel soft but sturdy, they’re ready to come off!
Grilling these apples properly will give you a deliciously caramelized flavor without losing their beautiful shape!
How to Make Bloomin’ Grilled Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Apples:
- 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup pecans, chopped
- ¼ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
- 1 tbsp butter (per apple)
- Aluminum foil
- Optional: whipped cream for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to grill. Altogether, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious treat that’s perfect for a cozy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill ready by preheating it to medium heat. This will ensure that your apples cook perfectly and get delicious grill marks!
2. Prepare the Apples:
Take your apples and carefully core them. Make sure not to cut through the bottom so they hold together nicely. Next, slice each apple into wedges. Aim for 8 cuts per apple, but remember to leave the wedges attached at the bottom.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This sweet mix will add flavor to the apples!
4. Stuff the Apples:
Gently spread the apple wedges apart and sprinkle your brown sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly between the layers. For a nice crunch, press a few chopped pecans into the apple wedges as you go.
5. Create Foil Packets:
Grab a large piece of aluminum foil for each apple. Place a prepared apple in the center and add a tablespoon of butter on top of it. Then, wrap the foil around the apple tightly to make a secure packet.
6. Grill the Apples:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the foil packets directly on the grill grates and close the grill lid. Let the apples cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re tender and fragrant.
7. Serve Your Delicious Treat:
Carefully remove the foil packets from the grill. Open them up, and place each grilled apple on a plate. Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, you can garnish with more chopped pecans and a dollop of whipped cream if you like!
Enjoy your delightful Bloomin’ Grilled Apples—perfect for a warm dessert or a fun gathering with friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith work great for grilling, you can also use Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples. Just make sure they are firm enough to hold their shape during grilling.
What If I Don’t Have Pecans?
No problem! You can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even omit the nuts altogether for a nut-free option. You could also add raisins or dried cranberries for a different texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the foil packets on a baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender. The flavor will be just as delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes to heat through before serving with fresh ice cream or caramel sauce!
