Baked Bloomin’ Apples are a fun and tasty dessert! Imagine fresh apples sliced to look like flowers, stuffed with sweet goodies like brown sugar and cinnamon, then baked until tender.
These treats smell amazing while baking, and they taste even better! I love serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top—it feels like a warm hug on a plate! 🍏✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture. If you want a tart flavor, Granny Smith apples work well too. You can even mix different types for added depth in flavor.
Nuts: I love using pecans for their rich, buttery taste. However, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. If you need a nut-free version, consider using rolled oats instead for some added crunch.
Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor. If you don’t have any, you can use granulated sugar or coconut sugar. Just remember, the flavor might change slightly.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners drizzle beautifully! If you’re vegan or want a lighter option, agave syrup is a good substitute.
How Do I Slice the Apples for That Bloom Effect?
Creating the bloom effect can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by washing the apples and drying them well.
- Use a sharp knife to slice down into the apple about 3/4 of the way, leaving the bottom intact. Imagine cutting the apple like a flower—think of slicing petals!
- Make sure to space your cuts evenly around the apple, typically 8-12 slices per apple works well.
Just take your time with the slicing, and don’t rush. A steady hand will give you those beautiful blooms!
Baked Bloomin’ Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30-40 minutes to bake. So in a little under an hour, you’ll have warm, sweet apples ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect setting for baking our flowers to perfection!
2. Prepare the Apples:
Start by washing and drying your apples. Next, using a sharp knife, gently slice each apple from the top down, making cuts about 3/4 of the way through. Aim to create a “bloom” effect, which means slicing them like petals of a flower. Be careful not to cut all the way through!
3. Mix the Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the chopped nuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix it well to combine those delicious flavors.
4. Stuff the Apples:
Gently open the apple slices a little bit and spoon that yummy nut and sugar mixture between the slices. Make sure to distribute it evenly so each bite is delicious!
5. Get Ready to Bake:
Place your stuffed apples in a baking dish. Dot the top of each apple with small pieces of butter. This added richness will make them extra special!
6. Drizzle the Sweetness:
Now, drizzle the maple syrup or honey over each apple, coating them beautifully. It will create a lovely glaze as they bake!
7. Bake the Apples:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the apples are tender and the filling is bubbling!
8. Let Them Cool:
Once baked, remove the apples from the oven and let them cool slightly. This is the hardest part—waiting to enjoy your creation!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm baked bloomin’ apples topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the lovely syrup from the baking dish on top!
Enjoy this comforting, sweet dessert that’s both charming and delicious! Perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Fuji are great choices for their sweetness and firmness, you can also try Granny Smith for a tart contrast. Mixing different apple varieties can add more flavor complexity to your dish!
How Can I Store Leftover Baked Apples?
Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave them until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Nuts in This Recipe?
If you’re looking for a nut-free option, you can use rolled oats or crushed graham crackers for added texture and sweetness. Just mix them with the brown sugar and spices as you would with the nuts!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey. This way, you keep the deliciousness while accommodating dietary preferences!
