Bloomin’ Apples

This Bloomin’ Apple dessert takes inspiration from the iconic Bloomin’ Onion and transforms it into a fun, autumn-inspired treat. The presentation is both playful and elegant, making it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself. The soft, tender baked apple pairs beautifully with gooey caramel and a buttery cinnamon-sugar glaze. Topped with creamy vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel, this dessert might make you say goodbye to traditional apple pie!

What Makes It Special

• Easy Yet Impressive: Despite their intricate appearance, these apples are surprisingly simple to prepare.
• Versatile Cooking Options: You can bake these in the oven or air fryer, making them adaptable to any kitchen setup.
• Quick Prep Tip: Using a melon baller or corer ensures a seamless process, and brushing with butter or lemon juice prevents browning during prep.

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Ingredients

• Cooking spray: To prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
• 4 Tbsp. melted butter: Adds richness and helps the apples caramelize.
• 1 Tbsp. packed brown sugar: Enhances sweetness with a touch of molasses flavor.
• 1 Tbsp. granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar and adds crispness.
• 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a cozy fall aroma.
• 4 apples: Choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for the best texture.
• 8 chewy caramel squares: The gooey center that makes this dessert irresistible.
• Breyers Natural Vanilla ice cream: A creamy, cold contrast to the warm apples.
• Caramel for drizzling: For an extra layer of decadence.

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Directions

For the Oven
Step 1: Prepare Baking Dish and Topping
Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a medium baking dish with cooking spray. Whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. This mixture adds a rich, sweet glaze to the apples.

Step 2: Core and Slice the Apples
Cut the top off each apple and use a corer (or melon baller) to remove the core. For leftover bits of the core, use a small spoon to scoop them out. Make two circular cuts around the apple with a paring knife, then place it cut-side down on a cutting board. Carefully slice crosswise without cutting through the core—this creates the “bloomin'” effect.

Step 3: Assemble
Place the apples in the prepared baking dish. Fill the hollowed centers with two caramel squares each, then brush the butter-sugar mixture generously over the tops.

Step 4: Bake and Serve
Bake for about 30 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel for a luscious finish.

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For the Air Fryer
Step 1: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.

Step 2: Core and Slice the Apples
Follow the same steps for coring, cleaning, and slicing the apples as outlined for the oven method.

Step 3: Assemble
Fill each apple with two caramel squares, then brush the butter-sugar mixture over the tops. Place the apples in the air fryer basket.

Step 4: Air Fry and Serve
Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until the apples are tender. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel for the ultimate treat.

Why It Works: The air fryer delivers perfectly tender apples with a slightly crisp outer layer, while the caramel melts into a delightful gooey center.

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Tips for Success

• Choose Firm Apples: Softer varieties might become too mushy when baked or air-fried.
• Prep Quickly: Apples oxidize and turn brown fast. Brush with butter or lemon juice to slow this process.
• Go Easy on the Cuts: Avoid slicing through the core to maintain the “bloom” structure.

Enjoy this irresistible twist on a classic fall dessert! 🍎