Baked Bloomin’ Apples are sweet and fun! These apples are cored, filled with goodies like brown sugar and cinnamon, and then baked until they are soft and warm.
I love how the apples look when they bloom in the oven, revealing all the tasty filling. It’s like a little surprise when you cut into them—yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Gala and Fuji are great for this recipe due to their sweetness and firmness. If you want a slightly tart flavor, Granny Smith apples are a good alternative. They hold up well when baked!
Brown Sugar: This ingredient adds sweetness and a wonderful caramel flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use coconut sugar or maple syrup. Both can achieve that lovely sweetness.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon gives a warm flavor. If you want to mix it up, try nutmeg or a bit of pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add crunch. If you have nut allergies, you can leave them out or use toasted oats for some texture.
Butter: For a dairy-free version, replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Both options work well and will keep the filling moist!
How Do I Make Sure My Apples Bloom Perfectly?
To achieve those gorgeous “petals” on your apples, step one is finding the right cut. Make deep vertical slices, stopping just before you cut all the way through. This allows the apple to open while baking but keeps it whole.
- Core the apples, leaving the bottom intact to hold the filling.
- Gently pull apart the cuts so they fan out, which helps the filling spread evenly.
- Keep an eye on baking time. The apples should be tender but not mushy, which usually takes about 30-40 minutes.
Served warm, these apples not only look fantastic but also taste amazing. Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with family and friends!
Baked Bloomin’ Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium apples (such as Gala or Fuji)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup apple juice or water
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 30-40 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around an hour of your time from start to finish, making it a perfect treat for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your oven is ready and hot for the apples when you’re finished preparing them.
2. Prepare the Apples:
Wash your apples thoroughly and then core them carefully. Make sure to leave about 1/2 inch at the bottom so the filling can stay inside. Next, using a sharp knife, make 4 deep vertical cuts around each apple, stopping just before cutting all the way through. This will create a lovely petal effect when baked.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, and flour. Mix it well so all the ingredients are evenly blended.
4. Fill the Apples:
Gently pull apart the apple cuts a little to open them up. Stuff the center of each apple and fill the gaps between the “petals” with your sugar mixture. Be generous!
5. Add Butter and Juice:
Dot the top of each apple with small pieces of butter for extra flavor. Then, place the apples in a baking dish and pour the apple juice (or water) into the bottom. This will help keep the apples moist while they bake.
6. Bake:
Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. The apples should become tender and the filling will bubble up. Keep checking them to make sure they don’t overcook.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they are done, remove the apples from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, and if you like, top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Enjoy your delightful Baked Bloomin’ Apples! They’re sure to impress!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Gala and Fuji are great choices for their sweetness and firmness, you can also use Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Honeycrisp for a balance of sweet and tart. Just ensure the apples are firm enough to hold their shape while baking.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Bloomin’ Apples?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or place them back in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can! Replace the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and ensure that any ice cream or whipped cream you serve with it is also vegan-friendly.
What Can I Use Instead of Nuts?
If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use them, you can omit the nuts entirely or substitute them with rolled oats to maintain some texture in the filling. Dried fruits like raisins or cranberries would also add a nice touch!
