Caramel Stuffed Bloomin’ Apples Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the comforting warmth of baked fruit with the gooey magic of caramel, then you must try these Caramel Stuffed Bloomin’ Apples. This delightful dish takes crisp, fresh apples and transforms them into a beautiful, flower-like treat stuffed with luscious caramel squares, kissed by cinnamon and brown sugar. It’s like autumn wrapped up in a single bite, perfect for cozy nights or impressing guests with minimal effort but maximum wow factor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building flavor, texture, and that gorgeous golden color. From the crisp apples to the silky caramel squares, these simple staples come together to create pure magic.

• Cooking Spray: Essential for greasing your baking dish or air fryer basket to prevent sticking while keeping cleanup easy.
• 4 Tbsp Melted Butter: Adds rich moisture and helps the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture create a beautifully caramelized glaze.
• 1 Tbsp Packed Brown Sugar: Brings a deep, molasses-like sweetness that intensifies during baking and complements the apples perfectly.
• 1 Tbsp Granulated Sugar: Provides a touch of sharp sweetness that balances out the brown sugar’s richness.
• 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon: Offers that warm, fragrant spice that elevates the flavors and makes the apples irresistible.
• 4 Apples (firm, crisp variety like Honeycrisp): Firm apples hold their shape well during baking, delivering crisp bite and juiciness.
• 8 Chewy Caramel Squares: The star of the dish, melting into luscious pools inside the apples, adding irresistible gooeyness.
• Vanilla Ice Cream (for serving): Creamy and cool, it’s the perfect companion to hot apples and sticky caramel.
• Caramel Sauce (for drizzling): An optional but decadent finishing touch that takes this dessert to the next level.

How to Make Caramel Stuffed Bloomin’ Apples

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven or Air Fryer and Butter Mixture

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F or your air fryer to 350°F. Meanwhile, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. This mixture will coat the apples and caramel, giving them a beautiful, fragrant glaze during baking.

Step 2: Slice and Core the Apples

Slice the top off each apple, then use an apple corer to remove the core—but be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom. Next, place each apple upside down and make thin crosswise cuts around it, creating a blooming effect. The slices should stay intact at the base, allowing the apple to “open up” while baking, showing off that gooey caramel surprise inside.

Step 3: Stuff the Apples with Caramel and Butter Mixture

Fill each apple’s hollowed core with two caramel squares, packing them snugly so they melt evenly. Brush the melted butter mixture all over the top of the apples and into the crevices created by your slices. This step ensures the cinnamon-sugar touches every nook and cranny.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry Until Tender

Place the apples in a greased baking dish if using the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, until they are tender but still hold their shape. If you prefer the air fryer, arrange the apples in the basket and cook at 350°F for roughly 20 minutes. Either way, you’ll end up with soft, warm apples and melted caramel oozing through the blooms.

Step 5: Serve Warm with Ice Cream and Caramel Drizzle

Once out of the oven or air fryer, immediately serve your Caramel Stuffed Bloomin’ Apples while they’re warm. A generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side lets you enjoy creamy, cold contrast to the warm apple and caramel. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce if you want to dial up the indulgence.

How to Serve Caramel Stuffed Bloomin’ Apples

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the apples for a lovely crunch that plays beautifully against the soft baked fruit. A pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel drizzle can also add a fantastic balance of sweet and savory notes.

Side Dishes

Though these apples can easily shine on their own, serving alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee is a treat for your senses. Offering a simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette will provide a refreshing palate cleanser after such a rich dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try placing each caramel stuffed bloom on a small tart crust or puff pastry round before baking. This creates a handheld dessert that’s both impressive and a little easier to enjoy at parties or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Caramel Stuffed Bloomin’ Apples left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the texture of the apples may soften slightly as they chill, but the flavor remains just as delicious.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this dessert because the apples tend to become mushy when thawed, and the caramel can change in texture. It’s best to enjoy these treats fresh for the ideal experience.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the apples gently in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, which can overly soften the apple and cause caramel to become tough.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for Caramel Stuffed Bloomin’ Apples?

Absolutely! While crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are ideal for holding their shape, you can experiment with other firm apples. Just avoid very soft or overly sweet ones, as they might turn mushy or overly sugary.

Is there a way to make these apples vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use dairy-free caramel squares or homemade vegan caramel sauce. Make sure your ice cream and cooking spray are also vegan-friendly for a completely plant-based dessert.

Can this recipe be doubled or multiplied for a larger crowd?

Definitely. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and bake the apples in batches if your oven or air fryer can’t accommodate them all at once. The flavors hold up wonderfully even when made for many people.

Can I make the apples ahead and bake them later?

You can prep the apples with their caramel filling and butter mixture, then cover and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. However, it’s best to bake soon after prep for the freshest texture and most vibrant flavor.

What other toppings pair well with Caramel Stuffed Bloomin’ Apples?

Whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes can all add unique touches. Feel free to get creative to match your personal taste or the occasion.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Caramel Stuffed Bloomin’ Apples that makes them an unforgettable dessert to share with friends and family. The combination of tender baked apples, gooey caramel, and warm cinnamon spices is comfort food at its finest. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, savor every bite, and maybe even make it a new seasonal favorite on your dessert rotation.

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