These Bloomin’ Grilled Apples are a tasty treat! With sweet, tender apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon, they’re perfect for a summer BBQ or family gathering.
Honestly, they’re so easy to make, and the smell of them grilling is simply amazing! I love serving them warm with a scoop of ice cream on top. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are my favorites for this recipe due to their balance of sweetness and tartness. If you can’t find them, look for Fuji or Braeburn apples which also hold up well on the grill.
Butter: I use unsalted butter for control over saltiness in the flavor. You could replace it with coconut oil or even a dairy-free butter for a non-dairy option.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is perfect, but if you’re out, you can use white sugar or even maple syrup. Adjust the amount of syrup slightly, as it’s more liquid than sugar.
Pecans: Chopped pecans add a nice crunch, but walnuts or almonds can also work. For nut-free, consider shredded coconut or omit them altogether.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is lovely, but you can switch it up and use apple pie spice for extra warmth. Just remember to use a little less spice if you’re mixing it in!
How Do You Make Those Perfect Blooming Cuts in Apples?
Creating the “blooming” effect is all about cutting the apples just right. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Start by ensuring the apples are stable; you can slice a tiny bit off the bottom if needed.
- Use a sharp knife and make cuts about 1/4 to 1/2 inch apart, going down to about halfway through the apple. Avoid cutting all the way through to keep the base intact.
- Make sure to hold the apple firmly and don’t rush; this technique gives your apples a beautiful presentation and helps them cook evenly.
How to Make Bloomin’ Grilled Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Grilled Apples:
- 2 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to grill. So, in total, plan for about 30-35 minutes to have these delicious bloomin’ apples ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure that your apples cook evenly and get that lovely grilled flavor.
2. Prepare The Apples:
Take the apples and carefully core them. Slice them into 1/4 to 1/2-inch slices, but be sure to leave the bottom intact. This is what creates the “blooming” effect! Make cuts from the top downwards, stopping halfway to keep them together.
3. Make The Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. This mixture will add flavor and help caramelize the apples as they grill.
4. Drizzle The Mixture:
Place the sliced apples on a big piece of aluminum foil. Drizzle the butter mixture generously over each apple, making sure to get it into all the little crevices for maximum flavor.
5. Add Pecans:
Next, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the apples. They will add a delicious crunch when grilled!
6. Wrap The Apples:
Carefully wrap the apples tightly in the aluminum foil, forming a neat packet. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep all the goodness inside while cooking.
7. Grill The Apples:
Place your foil packet on the preheated grill. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the apples are tender and fragrant!
8. Finish Off With Caramel:
Once the packet is off the grill, open it carefully (watch out for steam!). Drizzle some caramel sauce over the grilled apples for that extra sweetness.
9. Serve And Enjoy:
Serve the warm grilled apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Drizzle even more caramel sauce on top if you want a little extra goodness. Enjoy your sweet, blooming creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are great choices due to their sweetness and firmness, you can use other varieties like Fuji, Braeburn, or even Gala apples. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape while grilling.
What To Do If I Don’t Have Pecans?
No problem at all! You can substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds. If you prefer a nut-free option, try using granola or leaving them out altogether for a deliciously simple treat!
How Can I Make Them Ahead of Time?
To prep ahead, core and slice the apples, then mix the butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon as instructed. Store the prepared slices in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to grill, simply assemble and cook as directed.
Can I Cook These Apples in the Oven Instead?
Yes! If you’re not grilling, you can make these in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the foil packet on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender. Serve hot with caramel and ice cream just like you would from the grill!
