Apple Flambé
Apple Flambé is a quick, show-stopping dessert that turns simple ingredients into something extraordinary in minutes! It’s warm, buttery, and caramelized with just enough drama from the flames to seriously impress.
Ever wanted to do a flambé at home? I know it sounds fancy, but it is actually so easy to do! And if you know me, you know I’ve always loved desserts that feel special but don’t require hours in the kitchen. The smell of caramelizing sugar and apples filling the kitchen, followed by the flash of flames, makes apple flambé feel like a celebration every single time.
This is a stunning dessert that feels right at home on a romantic date night yet is simple enough to whip up for a cozy family treat. I always finish it with a big scoop (or two) of ice cream, keep it right in the warm skillet, and bring it straight to the table with a few spoons so everyone can dig in together.
Why We Love This Easy Apple Flambe Recipe
- It’s quick but impressive. In just minutes, you can turn a few pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy dessert.
- Warm and comforting. Buttery caramel, tender apples, and a hint of cinnamon make it feel instantly cozy.
- A little dramatic. The flames add a wow factor that never fails to delight.
- Versatile and crowd-pleasing. Perfect over ice cream, cake, or pancakes, and everyone loves it!
- Minimal ingredients. You only need five basic items to make it happen.
Ingredients You Need
- Apples: Firm, sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala hold their shape and balance the caramel’s sweetness.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create that silky caramel sauce.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar caramelizes into a golden, toasty base for the sauce.
- Cinnamon: A warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples and caramel.
- Brandy or Bourbon: Provides deep flavor and the signature flambé flames. Use more for a stronger flavor.
Variations & Substitutions
- Fruit swaps: Try pears, bananas, or peaches in place of apples.
- Spice blends: Add nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice instead of just cinnamon.
- Alcohol alternatives: Rum, whiskey, or apple brandy are also delicious options. For a non-alcoholic version, skip the flambé and use apple cider for a similar depth of flavor.
- Sugar: Use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a deeper, more molasses-like taste.
How to Make Apple Flambé
- Cook the Sugar: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sugar and let it melt until it turns a light amber color (about 2 minutes). Be careful not to burn it.
- Add Butter: Add the butter to the caramelized sugar and stir until smooth.
- Add the Apples: Add the apple slices and toss to coat them in the caramel. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the apples are slightly softened. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the apples.
- Add Alcohol & Burn: Pour the brandy or bourbon into the skillet. Carefully ignite the alcohol with a long lighter or match. Let the flames burn out naturally.
- Serve & Enjoy: Serve the caramelized apples warm over with ice cream.
Tips for Success
- Use a skillet with high sides to keep the flames contained. This helps prevent the fire from spreading and makes cleanup easier.
- Stand back when lighting the alcohol, never lean directly over the pan! The flames can flare up quickly, and a little distance keeps you safe.
- Have your lighter or match ready before adding the alcohol. That way, you can ignite it right away without losing heat or momentum.
- Slice apples evenly so they cook at the same rate. Uneven slices can lead to some pieces being overly soft while others stay too firm.
Serving Suggestions
This warm, caramelized apple flambe is incredibly versatile! Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:
- Over vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Spoon over pancakes, waffles, or crepes for a decadent brunch.
- Serve alongside pound cake or shortbread for a simple yet elegant dessert.
- Pair with whipped cream, creme anglaise, or crème fraîche for a tangy contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s safe when done carefully! Just keep flammable items away, use a long lighter, and stand back as you ignite.
It’s safe when done carefully, but it’s important to follow a few precautions. Keep flammable items like dish towels and paper towels well away from the stove, use a long lighter or match to keep your hands at a safe distance, and stand back as you ignite the alcohol. Make sure the skillet has high enough sides to contain the flames, and always pour the alcohol into the pan and then ignite, without pouring more alcohol over or the flames might get too high. With a little care, flambéing can be both safe and exciting!
Homemade apple flambé is best enjoyed right after cooking so the caramel stays smooth and the apples don’t over-soften. If you have leftovers, you can store in the fridge for later and then use as a topping on ice cream, waffles, or yogurt!
Firm, sweet-tart apples work best because they hold their shape during cooking while balancing the sweetness of the caramel. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Pink Lady, and Gala are all excellent choices. If you prefer a tarter flavor, Granny Smith apples also work well and provide a nice contrast to the buttery sauce.
More Recipes to Try
- Apple Flaugnarde Recipe
- Mango Tarte Tatin
- Strawberry Floating Island
- Flaky Apple Tart
- Baked Apples with Brie and Walnuts
The Best Apple Flambé Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Apples
- 3 tbsp Butter
- 3 tbsp Sugar
- Pinch of Cinnamon
- 2 oz or more Brandy or bourbon
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sugar and let it melt until it turns a light amber color (about 2 minutes). Be careful not to burn it.
- Add the butter to the caramelized sugar and stir until smooth.
- Add the apple slices and toss to coat them in the caramel. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the apples are slightly softened.
- Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the apples.
- Pour the brandy or bourbon into the skillet. Carefully ignite the alcohol with a long lighter or match. Let the flames burn out naturally.
- Serve the caramelized apples warm over with ice cream.
