These Bloomin’ Grilled Apples are a fun and tasty treat! Just slice an apple, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar, and grill until they’re soft and warm—simple and sweet!
The best part? The warm, gooey centers make them a great dessert! I love serving them with a scoop of ice cream. It’s like having a cozy campfire dessert right at home! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are great choices for grilling, as they hold their shape well and have a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. If these aren’t available, look for firm apples like Fuji or Braeburn.
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tartness of the apples. If you prefer less sweetness, you can substitute it with coconut sugar or use a smaller amount of regular granulated sugar.
Cinnamon: A classic pairing with apples! For a twist, you might use nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice if you want a different flavor profile.
Pecans: They add a nice crunch to the grilled apples. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work as a great alternative.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade caramel can be delicious too! If you’re cutting back on sugar, consider a sugar-free caramel option available at many stores.
How Do You Create That Perfect Bloom in Apples?
The blooming technique makes your apples look impressive and helps them cook better. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with washed and cored apples. Use a paring knife to score a deep circle around the top, about halfway through, and make crisscross cuts on the sides. This allows the apple to open up when cooking.
- Don’t cut all the way through the apple; you want it to stay intact while blooming. This step adds beauty and helps hold in all the tasty fillings.
How to Make Bloomin’ Grilled Apples?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Apples:
- 4 medium-sized apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Aluminum foil
For Serving:
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 4 scoops of vanilla ice cream
- Optional: whipped cream for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty treat takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to grill. In just under an hour, you’ll be enjoying warm, caramel-drizzled apples with ice cream!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
First, get your grill ready by heating it to medium. This will ensure your apples cook nicely and evenly.
2. Prep the Apples:
Next, wash and core the apples. Make a deep cut around the middle of each apple, but be careful not to cut all the way through. This cut helps create that beautiful blooming effect! To enhance caramelization, score the apples in a crisscross pattern.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. This will be the sweet filling for your apples!
4. Stuff the Apples:
Take each apple and stuff it with the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Add the chopped pecans to the center and ensure the mixture gets into the cuts for extra flavor.
5. Add Butter and Wrap:
Place a small piece of butter on top of each apple. Then, wrap each one individually in aluminum foil to keep them safe on the grill.
6. Grill the Apples:
Carefully place the wrapped apples on the preheated grill. Let them cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re tender and fragrant.
7. Finish Up:
Once grilled to perfection, carefully take the apples off the grill and unwrap them. Drizzle some delicious caramel sauce over the top.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the grilled apples warm, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra treat, add a swirl of whipped cream if you like. Enjoy your scrumptious Bloomin’ Grilled Apples!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are great options, feel free to experiment with other apple varieties like Fuji, Braeburn, or Gala. Just make sure they are firm so they hold up well on the grill!
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Apples?
If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the grill or in the microwave before serving, adding a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra flavor.
Can I Make These Apples in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the apples ahead of time! Prepare and wrap them in aluminum foil a few hours before grilling. Keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just remember that they may need a minute or two longer on the grill if chilled.
What Can I Substitute for Pecans?
If you’re not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, you can substitute them with chopped walnuts, almonds, or even granola for a crunchy texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly!
