1 Shares

As the leaves begin their colorful transformation, my kitchen fills with the sweet scent of autumn that beckons cozy evenings and hearty gatherings. Amidst this seasonal shift, I discovered a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall: Gooey Caramel Bloomin’ Baked Apples. Just imagining the tender, baked apples with a warm, gooey caramel center makes my mouth water.

This charming dessert not only delivers an incredible flavor reminiscent of apple pie but also comes together effortlessly. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a stunning dish that impresses family and friends alike. These Bloomin’ Apples are versatile and can easily cater to different dietary preferences, making them a perfect go-to for any occasion. Whether you serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or simply drizzled with extra caramel, they’ll quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that embodies the warmth and joy of the season!

Why are Bloomin’ Apples a must-try?

Irresistible flavor: These apples exude a warm, comforting essence that’s synonymous with fall family gatherings and cozy nights.
Effortless preparation: With minimal ingredients and a straightforward method, you’ll be creating magic in no time!
Customizable delight: Feel free to swap in your favorite apple varieties or add a nutty crunch for extra texture.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve them warm with ice cream, and watch as they become the star of your dessert table.
Nostalgic comfort: Each bite captures the spirit of autumn, reminding you of those cherished apple pie moments.

Bloomin’ Apples Ingredients

Get ready to whip up a delicious treat with these essential ingredients!

For the Apples

Honeycrisp apples – They provide a sweet and crisp base; you can substitute with Fuji or McIntosh for a different flavor.

For the Caramel Mixture

Butter – Adds rich flavor to the caramel; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
Brown sugar – Sweetens and enhances flavor; interchange light or dark brown sugar based on your preference.
Flour – Thickens the caramel sauce so it clings nicely to the apples; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free dessert.
Cinnamon – Infuses warmth; consider substituting with nutmeg or apple pie spice for a different twist.
Caramels – These create the gooey center that everyone loves; soft caramels melt best, or you can drizzle caramel sauce in.

Optional Toppings

Vanilla ice cream – A must-have for serving warm; it beautifully contrasts the warmth of the baked apples.
Additional caramel sauce – Drizzle for extra sweetness and to elevate the presentation of your Bloomin’ Apples.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re just moments away from creating a cozy autumn dessert that your loved ones will adore!

How to Make Bloomin’ Apples

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step sets the stage for perfectly baked apples with a melty center.
Prepare the apples by slicing off the top quarter and coring them using a melon baller or measuring spoon. Make sure to keep the apple structure intact for a beautiful presentation!
Score the apples by making deep circular cuts around the center and narrow cuts around the exterior. This allows flavors to seep in and for the apples to bloom beautifully as they bake.
Stuff the cored apples by placing caramel pieces inside in an oven-safe dish. Fill each apple generously for that delicious gooey surprise!
Mix together the butter and brown sugar in a bowl, heating in the microwave for 1 minute until melted. Stir in the flour and cinnamon until you have a thick, well-combined mixture.
Spoon the caramel mixture generously over each apple, ensuring to coat them well. This will add extra sweetness and flavor to every bite!
Bake the apples for 25-30 minutes, checking for tenderness; some apples may take up to 45 minutes. They should be soft and fragrant, perfect for dessert!
Serve the Bloomin’ Apples in bowls, topped with a scoop of ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for that finishing touch.

Optional: Add crushed nuts on top for a delightful crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Bloomin’ Baked Apples?

These warm, gooey delights are begging to be paired with something special for the ultimate cozy dessert experience.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic companion that contrasts beautifully with the warm apples, creating a delightful melted blend of flavors.
Savory Caramel Sauce: Drizzled on top, it enhances the sweetness of the apples and adds an irresistible layer of richness.
Chopped Nuts: Crushed pecans or walnuts sprinkle in a nutty crunch, offering textural contrast to the soft, warm fruit.
Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping not only adds creaminess but also enhances the warm spice notes of the dessert.
Sweet Biscotti: A delightful, crunchy treat perfect for dipping, creating an enjoyable texture combo alongside the tender apples.
Mulled Cider: This warm, spiced drink captures the essence of fall, making it an ideal pair for your Bloomin’ Apples.
Caramel Latte: A lovely coffee option, the rich flavors balance perfectly with the dessert’s sweetness for a decadent finish.
Spiced Ginger Cookies: Their contrasting flavors and crunch make for a cozy contrast with the melted caramel and tender apples.

How to Store and Freeze Bloomin’ Apples

Fridge: Store your Bloomin’ Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for a delightful warm treat.

Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap the baked apples in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen Bloomin’ Apples, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy that gooey caramel center again!

Avoid hardening: If topped with ice cream, serve immediately after baking to prevent the caramel from hardening and maintain that luscious texture.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing these Gooey Caramel Bloomin’ Baked Apples ahead of time can save you precious moments on busy weeknights! You can core and slice the apples up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them submerged in water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. Additionally, you can mix the caramel filling and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy your dessert, fill the apples with the caramel mixture, bake them straight from the fridge for about 30-35 minutes, and watch as they transform into a mouthwatering treat. This way, you’ll serve a delicious, gourmet-style dessert with minimal effort!

Bloomin’ Apples Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe for a personalized touch that will tantalize your taste buds.

Nutty Crunch: Add crushed pecans or walnuts on top before baking for a delightful crunch.
Spiced Up: Swap out the cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice to elevate the flavor profile.
Slow Cooker Option: Use a slow cooker instead! Add caramel sauce instead of individual caramels for a saucy delight.
Fruit Enhancements: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries with the caramel filling for a chewy surprise.
Maple Twist: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a deeper, fragrant sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples.
Extra Gooey: For an indulgent treat, drizzle the inside of the apples with chocolate sauce alongside the caramel.
Gluten-Free Flour: Replace regular flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs while retaining deliciousness.
Spicy Heat: For a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel mixture; this surprising heat will elevate your dessert.

Expert Tips for Bloomin’ Apples

Choose Firm Apples: Selecting firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji ensures your Bloomin’ Apples hold their shape and maintain texture while baking.
Be Mindful of Timing: Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark; overbaking can lead to mushy results. Bake until just tender for the best experience.
Don’t Skip the Scoring: Deep circular cuts allow for even baking and help the apples bloom beautifully. Ensure every apple gets scored for maximum caramel infusion.
Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is a favorite, don’t hesitate to experiment with nutmeg or apple pie spice for a unique flavor twist in your Bloomin’ Apples.
Utilize Leftover Caramel: Use any remaining caramel sauce to drizzle on top when serving. This enhances the sweetness and presentation beautifully!

Bloomin’ Apples Recipe FAQs

What is the best apple variety to use for Bloomin’ Apples?
Absolutely! I recommend using Honeycrisp apples for their sweetness and crisp texture, which holds up beautifully during baking. However, you can also opt for Fuji or McIntosh apples for a slightly different taste, just make sure they’re firm and crisp for the best results.

How should I store leftover Bloomin’ Apples?
Very good question! Store your Bloomin’ Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you plan to enjoy them later, I suggest reheating them gently in the microwave for about 30 seconds to bring back their warm, gooey goodness!

Can I freeze Bloomin’ Apples, and if so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze them! To freeze, allow the baked apples to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through.

What if my apples turn mushy when baking?
Ah, let’s avoid that mushy situation! To prevent overbaking, start checking for tenderness after 25 minutes. All apples vary in baking time based on size and firmness, so look for them to be soft yet still holding their shape. Also, scoring them properly allows for even cooking and can help with maintaining texture.

Are Bloomin’ Apples suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Certainly! You can make them gluten-free by substituting flour with a gluten-free flour blend without compromising the flavor of the caramel mixture. This way, you can enjoy these delightful Bloomin’ Apples while accommodating your dietary preferences.

Can I add nuts or other toppings to Bloomin’ Apples?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Adding crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts provides a lovely crunch that complements the soft apples. You can also try different drizzles, such as extra caramel sauce or whipped cream, to elevate the dessert even further!