Bloomin’ Apple Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Introducing the Bloomin Apple an innovative twist on a beloved classic dessert. This fall-inspired treat takes a Honeycrisp apple and transforms it into an eye-catching, mouthwatering creation that's full of flavor. Unlike the deep-fried Bloomin Onion, this dessert is baked to perfection, with each apple petal brushed with a blend of buttery apple pie spice and caramelized to tender, syrupy sweetness. Pair it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, and you have a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert thats as simple to make as it is impressive.

Ingredients

• 4 large Honeycrisp apples (9 ounces each)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons apple pie spice blend
• 8 medium soft caramel squares (such as Werther's)
• Vanilla ice cream
• Caramel sauce

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Gather all ingredients and prepare your baking setup.

Step 2: Slice off the top 1/2-inch of each apple. Use an apple corer, melon baller, or a teaspoon to remove the core, starting at the top of each apple and stopping about 1 inch from the bottom.

Step 3: With a paring knife or a round cookie cutter, cut 2 concentric circles about 1/4-inch apart, working outward from the core. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom of the apple.

Step 4: From the top of each apple, slice vertically into 8 even sections, leaving about 1/2-inch intact at the bottom so the apple stays together.

Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and apple pie spice until thoroughly combined.

Step 6: Place the prepared apples in an 8-inch square baking dish. Stuff each apple with two caramel squares.

Step 7: Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of each apple.

Step 8: Pour boiling water into the baking dish to a depth of about 1/4-inch around the apples. Cover the dish with foil.

Step 9: Bake the apples in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sugar begins to caramelize.

Step 10: Allow the apples to cool for 10 minutes. Gently spread the apple "petals" apart using your hands.

Step 11: Serve the warm apples, or let them come to room temperature. Top each with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent finish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 745
• Fat: 41g (53% of Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 25g (127% of Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 99mg (33% of Daily Value)
• Sodium: 241mg (10% of Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 97g (35% of Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 7g (25% of Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 77g
• Protein: 5g (11% of Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 11mg (12% of Daily Value)
• Calcium: 129mg (10% of Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (9% of Daily Value)
• Potassium: 474mg (10% of Daily Value)

The Story Behind the Bloomin Apple

The Bloomin Apple is a modern twist on the classic Bloomin Onion, a dish popularized by casual dining restaurants in the United States during the late 20th century. Inspired by the playful presentation of the onion, chefs sought a dessert version that combined seasonal flavors with visual appeal. By transforming a crisp Honeycrisp apple into a blooming flower filled with caramel and spices, this dessert celebrates the warmth of autumn while adding a sweet, indulgent spin to a familiar concept.

Regional Variations and Influences

Though the Bloomin Apple is rooted in American culinary creativity, its composition reflects regional influences. In the Northeastern United States, where apple orchards are abundant, local bakers often incorporate maple syrup or cinnamon from nearby farms to enhance the flavor. In Southern regions, caramel and buttery spices are emphasized, reflecting the areas affinity for rich, comforting desserts. Even within restaurants, chefs may experiment with local nuts, whipped cream, or bourbon-infused caramel to create a uniquely regional version of the dish.

How It Differs from Similar Desserts

Unlike traditional baked apples, which are often simple and uniform, the Bloomin Apple is visually striking. The apple is cut into a petal-like shape, allowing the caramel and spice mixture to infuse each section evenly. Compared to apple crisps or pies, this dessert focuses on presentation as much as taste, making it a centerpiece-worthy treat. The method of brushing spiced butter on the petals before baking also sets it apart from other caramel-filled apple desserts, creating a combination of tender, syrupy texture with a caramelized exterior.

Typical Serving Occasions

Bloomin Apples are commonly served in casual restaurants as a seasonal dessert, particularly in the fall when apples are at their peak. They also appear at holiday gatherings, brunches, and family dinners as a visually impressive yet easy-to-share treat. Often paired with vanilla ice cream and drizzled with additional caramel sauce, they provide a warm, indulgent ending to any meal, making them especially popular at Thanksgiving or autumn festivals.

Fun and Interesting Facts

• The desserts blooming design is inspired by floral patterns, giving it a unique presentation that delights both children and adults.
• Honeycrisp apples are preferred for their firm texture, which holds up well to baking without turning mushy.
• The idea of converting savory restaurant dishes into dessert versions has grown increasingly popular in American cuisine over the past two decades.
• Bloomin Apples are versatile: they can be made gluten-free, and the caramel can be substituted with chocolate for a creative variation.
• Despite its intricate appearance, the dessert is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a favorite among home bakers looking for an impressive presentation without advanced skills.

FAQ about Bloomin’ Apple Recipe

Comments