Bloomin’ Grilled Apples

 

Transform simple apples into a spectacular summer dessert right on your grill! These Bloomin’ Grilled Apples become incredibly tender, smoky, and deeply caramelized. They’re delicious on their own but become pure magic when crowned with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 firm, sweet apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)

• 2 tbsp butter, melted

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, but recommended)

• ½ cup caramel sauce, plus more for serving

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

• Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prep the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375°F – 400°F). You’ll be using indirect heat, so if using a gas grill, turn off one side. For a charcoal grill, push the coals to one side.

2. Create the Spiced Butter: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until it forms a fragrant paste.

3. Prepare the Apples: Slice off the top stem portion of each apple. Using a melon baller or a small spoon, carefully scoop out the core and seeds to create a well, being careful not to go all the way through the bottom. Flip the apple over so the flat, scooped-out bottom is now on your cutting board. Make narrow, vertical cuts (about ½-inch apart) around the entire apple, slicing almost but not quite all the way through.

4. Assemble: Place each prepared apple on a separate 12-inch square of aluminum foil. Gently brush the spiced butter mixture over the top and in between the slices. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of chopped nuts directly into the center of each apple, allowing it to seep down into the cuts.

5. Grill: Wrap the foil tightly around each apple to create sealed packets. Place the packets on the cool side of the grill (indirect heat), cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are soft and tender when pierced with a knife.

6. Serve: Carefully open the foil packets (watch for steam!). Use a spatula to transfer the apples to serving plates. Top with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, an extra drizzle of warm caramel sauce, and a final sprinkle of chopped nuts. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• Apple Choice: Firm apples like Honeycrisp hold their shape well, while Granny Smith offer a lovely tart contrast to the sweet toppings.

• No Grill? No Problem! These can be baked in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 25-30 minutes.

• Get Creative: Add a pinch of cardamom or a dash of bourbon to the butter mixture for a fun twist!