Effortless Blooming Baked Apples with Cinnamon-Sugar Crust

Discover the magic of blooming baked apples, a truly effortless dessert that transforms simple fruit into a stunning, warm treat. Each apple is artfully sliced to fan out, then generously filled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar crumble before being baked to tender, golden perfection. It’s a comforting and impressive dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 large baking apples (such as Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp), firm and blemish-free
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
• ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg or allspice
• A pinch of fine sea salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully wash and dry each apple. Using an apple corer or a small paring knife, remove the core, leaving the bottom intact. Place each apple on a cutting board and, starting about ½ inch from the bottom, make even, vertical slices around the apple, stopping before cutting all the way through. Aim for slices that are about ¼-inch thick to ensure they fan out beautifully.
2. Craft the Cinnamon Sugar Crumble: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar (ensure it’s packed for accurate measurement), all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg (or allspice), and a pinch of sea salt. Mix with a fork or your fingertips until the mixture is well combined and resembles moist, coarse crumbs.
3. Assemble and Fill: Gently transfer the prepared apples to a small baking dish or individual ramekins, leaving some space between them. Carefully fan out the pre-sliced apple sections, allowing the petals to open. Drizzle a small amount of fresh lemon juice over the fanned apples to prevent browning and add brightness. Now, generously press the cinnamon-sugar crumble mixture into the crevices of each apple and pile some on top, ensuring an even coating.
4. Bake to Tender Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until the apple flesh is fork-tender and the cinnamon-sugar crust is golden brown and delightfully bubbly. You’ll notice fragrant juices simmering around the apples at the bottom of the dish. Let them cool slightly before serving, as the filling can be very hot.

Recipe At-A-Glance

This recipe transforms simple apples into an elegant dessert with minimal fuss. The key is in the careful slicing, which allows the apples to ‘bloom’ during baking, creating a stunning visual effect. Paired with a warm, spiced crumb topping, it’s a perfect blend of texture and flavor.

Baker’s Notes

• For the best ‘blooming’ effect, ensure your apple slices are uniform in thickness and you stop cutting just before reaching the base.
• Choosing firm, crisp apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp is crucial, as they hold their shape well during baking and offer a pleasant texture.
• A touch of lemon juice not only prevents browning but also adds a bright counterpoint to the sweetness of the crumble.
• Don’t be shy with the crumble! Press it generously into every crevice for maximum flavor and texture.

Make Ahead / Freeze

• These blooming apples are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can assemble them up to 4 hours ahead of time. Cover loosely and refrigerate, then bake as directed.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low oven until warmed through.
• Freezing is not recommended as it can significantly alter the texture of the cooked apples, making them mushy upon thawing.

Prep time: 17 minutes | Cook time: 38 minutes | Yield: 4 servings

FAQs

What are the best apple varieties for this recipe?

Firm, crisp apples that hold their shape well during baking are ideal, such as Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. Avoid softer varieties that can turn mushy.

How do I prevent the apples from turning brown after slicing?

A quick drizzle of fresh lemon juice over the sliced apples before adding the topping helps prevent oxidation and keeps them looking vibrant.

Can I prepare these blooming apples ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the apples with the crumb topping up to 4 hours in advance. Cover them loosely and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

How should I store leftover baked apples?

Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a warm oven (around 300°F/150°C) until heated through.

Can I add nuts or oats to the crumble topping?

Absolutely! For added texture and flavor, you can mix ½ cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or rolled oats into the cinnamon-sugar crumble mixture.

My apples didn’t fan out well. What might have gone wrong?

Ensure you core the apple deep enough without cutting through the bottom, and make sure your slices are uniform and thin enough (about ¼-inch) to allow for easy fanning. Gently opening them up before adding the crumble helps too.

Can I make this recipe in individual ramekins?

Yes, baking the apples in individual ramekins or small oven-safe bowls is a great idea for personal portions and beautiful presentation.

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