Bloomin’ Grilled Apples are a fun twist on a classic! These juicy apples are sliced in a way that makes them bloom open and get nice and caramelized on the grill.
Imagine the sweet smell of cinnamon and sugar filling the air as they cook. I love serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—pure happiness on a plate! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Honeycrisp for sweetness and crunch. If you’re looking for something different, Fuji or Golden Delicious can also work well.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and depth. If you’re out, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses for each cup of sugar) to replicate the flavor.
Cinnamon: A classic spice that complements the apples. If you want to try something different, consider nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a unique twist.
Pecans: Chopped pecans give a nice crunch. Walnuts are a good substitute if you prefer them or have them on hand. You can also omit nuts for a nut-free version.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzled topping that adds sweetness. Store-bought works great, but homemade is even better! If you want a healthier option, try using maple syrup.
How Do I Prepare the Apples for Grilling?
The essential step here is to prep the apples properly so they cook evenly. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by washing the apples thoroughly to remove any wax or dirt.
- Carefully core each apple, ensuring you leave the bottom intact; this keeps the filling inside.
- Make a crosshatch pattern, about 3/4 of the way down, using a sharp knife. This helps the flavors soak in while they grill and gives a beautiful look!
- Be gentle but firm while cutting; you want to create a pattern without slicing right through.
When you follow these steps, your apples will grill perfectly and become delightfully tender and flavorful. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Bloomin’ Grilled Apples?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apples:
- 4 large apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- Aluminum foil
For the Toppings:
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes for cooking on the grill. So, grab your apples and let’s get cooking in under 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Grill Ready:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. Make sure it’s nice and warm, so our apples cook perfectly.
2. Prepare the Apples:
Carefully wash and core the apples, but keep the bottoms intact. This way, all the yummy filling will stay inside! Be gentle while doing this to avoid breaking the apples.
3. Create Crosshatch Cuts:
Using a sharp knife, make deep cuts in a crosshatch pattern around each apple. You want to cut about 3/4 of the way down. These cuts will help the flavors soak in deliciously.
4. Mix and Stuff the Filling:
In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans. Take your time mixing! Now, stuff this sweet mixture into the cuts you made on each apple.
5. Butter and Wrap:
Drizzle the melted butter over the stuffed apples. Then, wrap each apple tightly in aluminum foil to keep all the goodness inside while they grill. Seal them up nice and tight!
6. Grill Those Apples:
Place the wrapped apples directly on the grill. Let them cook for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are nice and tender.
7. Unwrap and Serve:
When the apples are ready, carefully unwrap them from the foil (watch out for steam!). Place each warm apple on a serving plate.
8. Add Toppings:
Top each grilled apple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle on some delicious caramel sauce for an extra treat!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, add some more chopped pecans on top for a crunchy finish. Serve your warm Bloomin’ Grilled Apples right away and enjoy a delightful dessert!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices for grilling, you can use any firm apples such as Fuji or Braeburn. Just ensure they can hold up well to heat, so stay away from softer varieties like Red Delicious.
What If I Don’t Have Pecans or Walnuts?
No problem! You can substitute with any nuts you enjoy, such as almonds or hazelnuts, or even leave the nuts out entirely for a nut-free dessert. The stuffing will still be delicious with just the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.
How Can I Store Leftover Apples?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them back on the grill for a few minutes or warm them in the microwave until heated through. You can also add a bit more caramel sauce when reheating for extra deliciousness!
Can I Make These Apples Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the apples by coring and stuffing them a few hours in advance. Just wrap them in foil and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. When grilling, they may need an extra couple of minutes to cook through if they have been refrigerated.
