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This bloomin apples recipe creates a beautifully baked apple dessert that is both simple and full of warm comforting flavors. It turns everyday apples into a sweet, tender treat perfect for cozy nights or sharing with friends and family.
I first made this on a chilly autumn evening and the delightful aroma filled the whole house. Since then, it has become a go to whenever I want something that feels special without fuss.
Ingredients
- Apples: Four medium sized apples such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith that hold their shape well when baked and offer the right balance of tartness and sweetness
- Unsalted butter: A quarter cup of unsalted butter melted to blend with the sugars for a rich, luscious coating
- Brown sugar: Half a cup of brown sugar which caramelizes beautifully and adds a subtle molasses note
- Cinnamon: One teaspoon of ground cinnamon for that classic warm spice flavor
- Nutmeg: A quarter teaspoon of nutmeg which complements cinnamon by adding a hint of earthiness
- Chopped nuts: Quarter cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to bring crunch and texture contrast
- Optional dried fruit: Optional quarter cup of raisins or dried cranberries that add bursts of sweetness and chew
- Lemon juice: One tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the mixture and keep the apples from browning
- To serve: Ice cream or whipped cream to serve alongside and create a luscious contrast
Instructions
- Prepare Your Apples:
- Core each apple but be sure to leave the bottom intact so it holds together. Cut into wedges slicing about threequarters of the way down, nearly all the way through but still connected at the base. This makes the apple open up like a flower when baked.
- Mix the Filling:
- Combine the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, chopped nuts, raisins or dried cranberries if using, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir thoroughly to ensure the sugar blends with the butter and spices.
- Arrange and Fill:
- Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Place the apples arranged upright in the dish. Spoon the mixture generously into the gaps between the apple wedges so the flavors melt right into the fruit as it bakes.
- Bake Covered:
- Add a splash of water to the bottom of the dish to keep the apples moist. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit 175 degrees Celsius for 25 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered:
- After 25 minutes remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes until the apples are tender and the sugar bubbling and slightly caramelized.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the apples to cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add a creamy coolness that contrasts beautifully with the warm spiced fruit.
My favorite ingredient is the cinnamon because it fills the kitchen with such a cozy scent while baking. I remember making this once for a family gathering and everyone kept sneaking little bites before dinner was even served because it smelled so irresistible.
Storage tips
Store leftover bloomin apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating warm gently in the oven or microwave to avoid turning the fruit mushy.
Ingredient substitutions
If you don’t have unsalted butter you can use a neutral oil like coconut or avocado but the flavor will be less rich. Walnuts or pecans can be swapped for almonds or hazelnuts depending on your preference. For dried fruit try currants or chopped dates if cranberries or raisins are unavailable.
Serving suggestions
Serve warm with classic vanilla ice cream or lightly sweetened whipped cream to balance the spices and tartness of the apples. A drizzle of caramel sauce also pairs beautifully if you want to indulge further.
Serve warm for the best contrast between the spiced fruit and cold ice cream. This simple yet impressive dessert is perfect for cozy gatherings.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What types of apples work best for this dish?
Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are recommended for their firm texture and balanced sweetness, which hold up well during baking.
- → Can I substitute the nuts used in the filling?
Yes, walnuts or pecans are ideal, but feel free to use your preferred nuts or omit them if desired.
- → Is it necessary to add raisins or dried cranberries?
Raisins or dried cranberries add extra sweetness and texture, but they are optional and can be left out based on personal taste.
- → How do I ensure the apples bake evenly?
Core and slice the apples about 3/4 down, arrange them evenly in the baking dish, and cover with foil to create steam for tender results.
- → What are good serving suggestions for this dish?
Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the warm spices and tender apples.