Bloomin' Baked Apple With Caramel Sauce

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Step 2: Turn apple sideways and slice off the top third of the apple. Discard the top.

Step 3: With a melon-baller, carefully scoop out the core. Don't go through to the bottom.

Step 4: With a thin knife, cut two deep circular cuts around the center of the apple - it will look like a target. Cut down deep enough but not all the way through.

Step 5: Turn the apple upside-down, so the untouched bottom is facing up. Starting about 1/4 of an inch from the center, make narrow vertical slits all the way around the apple, making sure to cut clear through the circular layers.

Step 6: Turn the apple right side up. Now it looks more like a spider-web design on top. Place in an oven-safe dish. Push two caramels down into the empty center core of each apple.

Step 7: Place the butter and brown sugar in a microwave-safe dish and melt in the micro for 30 seconds on high. Stir and microwave 30 seconds more. Remove from microwave and stir in flour, salt, and apple pie spice. Evenly divide mixture over the two apples.

Step 8: Depending on the size of the apples, bake for 25-45 minutes or until the apples are soft and tender. Using a large spoon, transfer apples to individual serving bowls. If the apples don't fall open, use two forks to spread the layers apart. If using, top with ice cream and caramel sauce. Serve while still warm!