Bloomin’ Grilled Apples are a fun and tasty treat! These juicy apples are cut to look like a flower and grilled to perfection, bringing out their natural sweetness.
Watching them bloom on the grill is a real delight, and they get a yummy caramelized taste. I like to serve them warm with some ice cream—seriously, it’s a match made in heaven!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Gala and Granny Smith apples are great choices for this recipe. Gala apples are sweet, while Granny Smith adds a nice tartness. If those aren’t available, you can use Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for a tasty alternative.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a rich sweetness. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with white sugar mixed with a little molasses (1 tablespoon molasses per cup of sugar). Alternatively, coconut sugar can work too!
Pecans: Chopped pecans add a lovely crunch. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or oats can give a similar texture, though they will alter the flavor slightly.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought caramel is convenient, but homemade can be superb! If you want a healthier option, consider using maple syrup instead for a lovely taste.
How Do You Make Grilled Apples Bloom Perfectly?
Creating the “bloom” in your apples is crucial for this recipe. This technique allows the sugar and toppings to seep into the apple while grilling. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by washing your apples well. Pat them dry before cutting.
- Carefully slice the apples into quarters, keeping the core intact. This helps the apple hold its shape.
- Cut down to about 1/4 inch from the bottom but not all the way through, allowing the apple to bloom open without falling apart.
Remember, take your time! A well-prepared apple leads to the best results on the grill.
How to Make Bloomin’ Grilled Apples
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Apples:
- 4 medium apples (like Gala or Granny Smith)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Aluminum foil
For Serving:
- 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to grill. So in total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes for a delicious, warm dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by turning on your grill and setting it to medium heat. This will ensure that your apples cook evenly and get that lovely grilled flavor!
2. Prepare the Apples:
Wash the apples thoroughly. Then, carefully slice each apple into quarters, but don’t cut all the way through! Leave the core intact so the apple holds together and opens up like a flower when it cooks.
3. Season the Apples:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together. Take this delightful mix and sprinkle it generously into the crevices of the sliced apples. This will add sweetness and warmth to each bite!
4. Add the Pecans:
Fill the center of each apple with the chopped pecans, letting them nestle into the gaps created by your cuts. This extra crunch will enhance the flavor and texture of your grilled apples.
5. Top with Butter and Caramel:
Place small dots of butter on top of each apple, and then drizzle a bit of the caramel sauce over them. This will create a heavenly topping as the apples cook.
6. Wrap the Apples:
Grab your aluminum foil and tightly wrap each apple to keep them from burning on the grill. This will also help them steam and become tender!
7. Grill the Apples:
Place the wrapped apples on the grill and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes. Check for doneness by carefully piercing one of the apples with a fork. They should be soft but not falling apart.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the apples are tender, carefully remove them from the grill and unwrap them. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top and a little extra drizzle of caramel sauce if you wish. Enjoy the sweet and warm flavors of your grilled apples!
These bloomin’ grilled apples are a wonderful treat that’s great for summer barbecues or cozy fall gatherings. Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Gala and Granny Smith are great choices, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Just keep in mind that different apples may have slightly varying cooking times; firmer apples might take a bit longer to become tender.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Apples?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the grill or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of caramel sauce to refresh their flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Nuts?
Yes, you can easily omit the pecans if you have allergies or simply prefer not to use nuts. You can also substitute them with other toppings like granola or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the apples by slicing and seasoning them ahead of time. Assemble the apples with the brown sugar mixture and pecans, but wait to wrap them in foil until just before grilling. Store the prepared apples in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before grilling to keep them fresh.
