These Bloomin’ Grilled Apples are a fun treat! Full of cinnamon, sugar, and butter, they look beautiful and taste amazing. Perfect for a tasty dessert right off the grill!
Honestly, who knew apples could be this exciting? I love serving them warm with ice cream on top. It’s an easy and delicious way to impress friends at a barbecue! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are my favorites for this recipe. They have just the right balance of sweet and tart. If these aren’t available, try Fuji or Braeburn apples—they’re also delicious!
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich, caramel-like flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with white sugar (use a bit more) or even coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Cinnamon: A classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples. If you want a twist, consider nutmeg or apple pie spice instead. They’ll add warmth to your dish!
Nuts: Pecan or walnut adds crunch, but you could also use almonds or skip them entirely for a nut-free version. Just watch out for guests with nut allergies!
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought works like a charm, but homemade is just special! You can swap it with chocolate sauce if you prefer that sweet flavor combo.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Apples?
The key to delightful grilled apples is in the preparation and cooking method. Start by ensuring you don’t cut completely through the apples. This helps keep them intact while grilling.
- Remove the core carefully to make room for your flavorful toppings.
- Slice the apples in a crisscross pattern, about 1/4 inch apart, creating spaces for the sugar and caramel.
- Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil to trap steam, which helps them cook evenly and become tender.
- Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking—check for tenderness after 20 minutes.
How to Make Bloomin’ Grilled Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Apples:
- 4 large apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Aluminum foil
For Serving:
- 1 quart vanilla ice cream
- Optional: additional sugar or toppings for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to grill. In total, you’ll need about 35 minutes, and then you can enjoy these warm and sweet grilled apples topped with ice cream!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium heat. This will ensure your apples cook evenly and get that nice grilled flavor.
2. Prepare the Apples:
Wash and dry the apples. Carefully remove the core without cutting through the bottom, so they hold their shape. Then, slice the apples almost to the bottom in a crisscross pattern, making cuts about 1/4 inch apart. This is what gives the apples their “blooming” look!
3. Add Sugar and Cinnamon:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together. Generously sprinkle this mixture over the sliced sides of the apples, making sure to get it into the cuts for extra sweetness. To keep the apples looking fresh and to add a zesty flavor, squeeze a little lemon juice over them.
4. Assemble in Foil:
Take a large piece of aluminum foil and place the prepared apples in the center. Drizzle the caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with the chopped nuts. This will add a lovely crunch to your dish.
5. Create a Foil Pouch:
Fold the aluminum foil around the apples to make a sealed pouch, trapping the steam inside. This helps cook the apples thoroughly and keeps them juicy.
6. Grill the Apples:
Place the foil pouch directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t overcook.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the foil pouch from the grill (it will be hot!). Let it cool slightly before unwrapping it. To serve, place each bloomin’ grilled apple on a plate, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, and drizzle with more caramel sauce if you like. Enjoy your warm, delicious treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are popular choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness, feel free to experiment with any firm, sweet apples like Fuji or Braeburn. Just ensure they hold their shape well during grilling.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
You can reduce the sugar by using less brown sugar or substituting it with a sugar alternative like Stevia or coconut sugar. Additionally, you could skip the caramel sauce or use a sugar-free version to lighten it up!
Can I Prepare These Apples in Advance?
Yes! You can core and slice the apples and mix them with brown sugar and cinnamon up to a day ahead. Just store them in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to grill, add lemon juice, caramel, and nuts before sealing and cooking.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Apples
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until heated through. Serve with fresh ice cream to enjoy again!
