Introduction
Oven Baked Bloomin’ Apples are a delightful and simple dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine the sweet aroma of baked apples wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the warmth of cinnamon and the rich sweetness of brown sugar. These apples not only look impressive but also offer a warm, comforting treat that pairs exceptionally well with vanilla ice cream. This dessert is easy to make and requires minimal effort, yet the results are breathtaking. Let’s dive into how to create this mouthwatering dish!
Detailed Ingredients
4 large apples
Honeycrisp or Granny Smith types work wonderfully for this recipe, providing a balance of sweetness and tartness.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Melted butter adds richness and helps to create a delicious glaze.
1/4 cup brown sugar
Brown sugar not only sweetens the dish but also adds a lovely caramel flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon enhances the warm, cozy flavors that you associate with fall and baking.
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Nuts add a delightful crunch and pair well with the soft texture of the baked apples.
Vanilla ice cream for serving
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings everything together, making each bite outrageously delicious.
Prep Time
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your apples will bake evenly and achieve the perfect tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Wash each apple thoroughly and core them carefully, making sure to leave the bottom intact. This can help the filling stay contained. If the apples are unsteady, slice a small portion off the bottom to create a stable base, allowing them to stand upright in the baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed and the mixture is smooth. This will become your sweet glaze that flavors the apples.
Step 4: Place Apples in Baking Dish
Arrange the cored apples in a baking dish. It’s essential to give them enough space so that they can evenly bake and absorb the flavors of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 5: Coat the Apples
Spoon the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over each apple. Be sure to pour some into the cored centers to maximize flavor.
Step 6: Add Nuts (Optional)
If you’re using nuts, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the top of each apple. This adds an extra layer of texture and flavor, making the dish even more delightful.
Step 7: Bake the Apples
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let the apples bake for 25-30 minutes. They are ready when they become tender but still hold their shape.
Step 8: Cool Slightly
Once the apples are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. This pause gives the flavors a chance to settle.
Step 9: Serve
Serve your bloomin’ apples warm, accompanied by a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. This combination takes the dessert to the next level, providing a warm and cold contrast that is simply irresistible.
Notes
Choosing Apples
For the best results, select firm apples that hold their shape during baking. Honeycrisp apples are sweet with a crisp texture, while Granny Smith apples offer a tart contrast—both will deliver delicious results.
Adjusting Sweetness
Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the sugar to 2-3 tablespoons.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover bloomin’ apples, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the microwave for a few seconds.
Cook techniques
Baking
Baking is the primary technique utilized in this recipe, allowing the apples to absorb the cinnamon-sugar mixture while softening to tender perfection.
Coring
Carefully coring the apples maintains their integrity while creating a space for the sweet filling. Using a melon baller or a specialized corer can help achieve clean results.
Mixing
When mixing the melted butter with sugar and cinnamon, make sure the ingredients are well blended to ensure even flavor distribution across the apples.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are excellent choices, feel free to experiment with other varieties such as Fuji or Braeburn.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar in a pinch, but the flavor will be less rich. To mimic brown sugar’s flavor, mix white sugar with a bit of molasses if available.
Can I freeze the baked apples?
Yes, baked apples can be frozen. Allow them to cool down completely before wrapping them tightly and storing them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Oven Baked Bloomin’ Apples are not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. With a delightful blend of textures and flavors, this dessert will leave your guests craving more. The simple preparation and baking process make it a perfect choice for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings. Don’t forget to include that scoop of vanilla ice cream—it transforms this dish into an unforgettable experience!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Oven Baked Apples with Oats
For a heartier option, try adding oats and honey to the filling mixture for a delicious baked apple oatmeal treat.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle
Top your bloomin’ apples with warm caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness.
Spiced Apple Cider
Pair your dessert with a warm cup of spiced apple cider, enhancing the fall flavors.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Variation
Use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon in the sugar mixture for a seasonal twist on flavor.
Ice Cream Variations
Try different ice cream flavors such as cinnamon, caramel swirl, or even a scoop of salted caramel for a unique pairing.
Oven Baked Bloomin’ Apples are a delicious way to welcome autumn and satisfy your sweet tooth. Happy baking!