Oven Baked Bloomin’ Apples – Page 2

Ingredients for Oven Baked Bloomin’ Apples

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Oven Baked Bloomin’ Apples:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
Prepare the apples: Wash and core each apple, removing the seeds and creating a small well in the center. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom. Use a paring knife to cut two circular layers around the top of the apple. Then, slice vertically down the sides, but again, avoid cutting all the way through the base so the apple stays intact. This will allow the apple to “bloom” as it bakes.
Coat the apples: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and vanilla extract. Brush the apples with lemon juice to prevent browning, then generously brush each apple with the butter mixture, making sure to get it between the slices for maximum flavor.
Optional caramel addition: For an extra indulgent touch, tuck a caramel into the center of each apple. As it bakes, the caramel will melt into the apple for a gooey surprise.
Bake the apples: Place the prepared apples in the baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and beginning to “bloom.” Remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the tops to caramelize.
Serve and enjoy: Remove the apples from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate fall dessert.

Choose the right apples: Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala hold up well to baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
Core with care: Make sure not to slice all the way through the bottom of the apple when coring or making your cuts. This helps the apple maintain its shape and prevents the filling from leaking out.
Add extra flavor: For a twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the center of the apple along with the caramel for a nutty crunch.
Spice it up: Customize the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Caramel drizzle: If you’re a caramel lover, drizzle some caramel sauce over the finished apples for an extra sweet finish.

Oven Baked Bloomin’ Apples are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the apples in a microwave-safe dish and warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Freezing: These apples don’t freeze well due to their high moisture content, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh or refrigerated.

These apples are delicious on their own, but here are a few pairing ideas to make your Bloomin’ Apples even more indulgent:

Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm, spiced apples.
Whipped cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream complements the rich flavors and adds a cool, airy texture.
Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the top of the apples brings out their sweetness and adds a decadent finish.
Chopped nuts: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a bit of crunch and extra flavor.