Get ready to fall in love with the cozy magic of Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream! This delicious dessert transforms simple apples into something extraordinary, with each “petal” infused with fragrant spices and butter and baked until golden and tender. The finale? A melty scoop of vanilla ice cream and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s everything you want in a comforting autumn treat—beautiful, irresistible, and so much fun to serve.

Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream is all about celebrating simple ingredients that deliver big flavor and cozy warmth. Each component plays its part—from the star apples to the buttery, spiced finish—creating a heavenly combination that’s far greater than the sum of its parts.

Honeycrisp or Fuji apples: Their natural sweetness and firm texture hold up perfectly during baking, making every petal tender yet satisfying.
Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and ensures the cinnamon sugar seeps deliciously into every nook and cranny.
Light brown sugar: Brings a deep caramel-y sweetness that melts into a luscious sauce as the apples bake.
Ground cinnamon: The classic, quintessential pairing with apples—warming and fragrant.
Ground nutmeg: A pinch brings extra warmth and dimension, lifting the whole flavor profile.
Vanilla extract: Rounds everything out with comforting, aromatic notes.
Pinch of salt: Just a little bit to balance the sweetness and wake up the flavors.
Vanilla ice cream (for serving): Cold, creamy, and the perfect contrast to warm, spiced apples!
Caramel sauce (for serving): Adds extra indulgence—homemade or store-bought both work beautifully.

How to Make Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream

Step 1: Prep Your Apples

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepping a baking dish with a little butter or a parchment lining. Now, give your Honeycrisp or Fuji apples a quick rinse, then slice off the top quarter inch—just enough to expose the inside without losing too much of the good stuff. Use a melon baller or sharp paring knife to carefully scoop out the core, making a cozy hollow for all that cinnamon sugar magic.

Step 2: Make the Bloomin’ Cuts

Place each apple flat-side down for easy slicing. Using a sharp knife, cut vertical slits about 1/4 inch apart, stopping before you cut all the way through so the bottom holds together. Give the apples a quarter-turn, then repeat with horizontal slits to create a crosshatch pattern. Gently fan out the petals with your fingertips to start that signature “bloomin’” look—this is what makes Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream so fun and unique!

Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon-Sugar Butter

Melt the unsalted butter in a small bowl, then stir in the light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This mixture should become fragrant and glossy—a few swirls with a spoon is all it takes. You’ll want to use every last drop, so set aside a spatula or spoon for drizzling it over the apples.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

Set your “bloomin’” apples upright in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the cinnamon-sugar butter generously over each apple, making sure it drips into all those beautiful cuts and petals for maximum flavor. Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, until the apples are soft, bubbling, and lightly caramelized.

Step 5: Serve with Ice Cream & Caramel

Remove your baked apples from the oven and let them cool for just a breath—warm is best! Plate each apple, nestle a scoop of vanilla ice cream in the center, and drizzle generously with caramel sauce. The contrast of cold ice cream over spiced, steamy apples is pure dessert bliss and absolutely essential to the heart of Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream.

How to Serve Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream

Garnishes

For a beautiful finish, top with chopped toasted pecans or walnuts, a dusting of cinnamon, or a little extra caramel drizzle. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprig of fresh mint or a dollop of whipped cream adds restaurant-worthy flair. These thoughtful touches turn Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream into a showstopping dessert for any occasion.

Side Dishes

Pair your apples with a warm cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy afternoon treat. On the brunch table, they’re fantastic alongside buttery pastries or cinnamon rolls. If you’re serving them for a special dinner, a crisp green salad or savory cheese plate as a starter balances out the sweetness and makes this dessert feel extra special!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve each Bloomin’ Apple in a shallow bowl with the ice cream nestled in the center—or elevate your presentation by baking them in individual ramekins. For a festive gathering, try garnishing the apples with edible flowers or serving mini versions using small apples for bite-sized fun. No matter how you present them, people will swoon over both the looks and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream, store the baked (and cooled) apples—without ice cream—in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days and reheat easily for impromptu dessert cravings or a next-day treat.

Freezing

While apples can become a bit softer after freezing and thawing, you can freeze baked Bloomin’ Apples for future use. Wrap them individually in foil or freezer-safe containers, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them gently before serving with fresh ice cream.

Reheating

To reheat, place the refrigerated or thawed apples in a baking dish and cover loosely with foil. Warm them in a 325°F (163°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For a quick single serving, microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes. Add ice cream and caramel right before serving for that just-baked experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Fuji apples work beautifully for Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream, you can also use Granny Smith for a tart kick or Gala for a milder flavor. Just be sure to choose an apple that holds its shape during baking.

Do I have to peel the apples first?

No need to peel! Leaving the skin on helps the apples hold together while baking and adds color and nutrients. Plus, it makes prep even easier.

Can I make this recipe dairy free?

Definitely. Simply substitute your favorite dairy-free butter and pair the finished apples with plant-based vanilla ice cream. There are also dairy-free caramel sauces available, so everyone can enjoy Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream.

Could I prepare the apples ahead of time?

Yes! You can core and slice the apples in advance. Just rub a little lemon juice over the cuts to prevent browning, then assemble and bake when ready. This makes serving warm, freshly baked Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream a total breeze.

What if I don’t have a melon baller?

A sharp paring knife works just as well to core the apples. Carefully cut around the core and scoop out the seeds, leaving the bottom intact. You’ll still get that signature “bloom” effect for this delightful dessert.

Final Thoughts

If you’re longing for a simple dessert that feels special, comforting, and downright impressive, Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream delivers every time. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it part of your fall (and cozy weekend) traditions. Don’t wait for the leaves to turn—invite some friends over and treat everyone to this swoon-worthy baked apple delight!

Bloomin’ Apples with Cinnamon Sugar & Ice Cream Recipe