Oven Baked Bloomin’ Apples

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need:

• Baking dish
• Sharp knife
• Melon baller or small spoon
• Pastry brush
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Recipe for Oven-Baked Bloomin’ Apples

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Apples

Choose firm, large apples that can hold their shape during baking. Use a melon baller or spoon to remove the core of each apple, being careful not to cut through the bottom. Next, slice the apple into thin sections without cutting all the way through the bottom. You want to create a blooming effect, like a flower opening. Start by cutting four even sections (like quarters), then cut each section into smaller slices.

3. Mix the Filling

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until it forms a smooth, spiced mixture. If you want extra sweetness, you can add honey or maple syrup to this mix.

4. Stuff the Apples

Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously coat the inside and outside of each apple with the butter-sugar mixture, making sure it gets between the slices to maximize flavor.

5. Bake the Apples

Place the prepared apples in the greased baking dish. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the apples from drying out while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and soft but still hold their shape.

6. Add Caramel and Serve

Once the apples are out of the oven, drizzle them with warm caramel sauce for a rich, decadent finish. Serve the bloomin’ apples warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips and Variations

• Types of apples: If you prefer a slightly tart flavor, use Granny Smith apples. For a sweeter bite, Honeycrisp or Gala apples are ideal. Make sure the apples are firm enough to hold their shape while baking.
• Fillings: Add chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), raisins, or even oats to the butter-sugar mixture for added texture and flavor.
• Caramel alternative: If you prefer something less sweet, skip the caramel and opt for a drizzle of maple syrup or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
• Spice it up: Adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your liking, or add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra fall warmth.
• Healthier option: For a healthier version, you can reduce the sugar and swap out the butter for coconut oil.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have any leftover baked apples, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• In the microwave: Reheat the apples in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm.
• In the oven: For a crispier texture, reheat the apples in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.