Description
These easy caramel apples are a perfect sweet treat for fall or any festive occasion. Juicy apples are dipped in smooth, creamy caramel and coated with your choice of delicious toppings like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crushed cookies. They’re simple to make and sure to delight kids and adults alike with their perfect balance of tart apple and rich caramel.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Apples
- 10 apples (or use 8-10 apples depending on size)
- 10 skewers for apples
Caramel Coating
- 22 oz caramels, unwrapped (from two 11 oz bags)
- 4 Tbsp heavy whipping cream
- Pinch of salt
Toppings (choose any)
- Chopped pecans
- Sprinkles
- Mini M&M’s
- Shredded coconut
- Crushed Oreo cookies
- Melted chocolate for drizzling
- Crushed pretzels
- Chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: If using store-bought apples, remove the wax coating by dipping them in hot water for a few seconds and rubbing with a towel. Dry apples thoroughly. Remove stems and insert skewers into the top. Refrigerate apples to help the caramel set faster while you prepare toppings and caramel.
- Set Up Toppings and Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner. Arrange your chosen toppings in bowls, ready for dipping.
- Melt Caramel: Heat the unwrapped caramels with heavy cream and a pinch of salt over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and melted.
- Dip Apples in Caramel: Roll each apple sideways in the warm caramel to coat nearly to the top, leaving a bit of apple showing near the stem. Allow excess caramel to drip back into the bowl. Scrape off excess caramel from the bottom against the side of the bowl to avoid pooling.
- Adjust Caramel Consistency: If air bubbles form or the caramel gets too thick, gently rewarm it. If caramel is too runny, let it cool slightly before dipping the next apple.
- Add Toppings: Immediately after caramel dipping, roll apples in your chosen toppings or leave plain. Place coated apples on the prepared baking sheet.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate apples for at least 15 minutes or until the caramel is firm. Before serving, drizzle with melted chocolate if desired.
Notes
- Removing the wax coating from apples helps the caramel adhere better.
- Use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals to avoid burning the caramel.
- Refrigerating apples before dipping helps caramel set more quickly.
- Feel free to mix and match toppings for variety.
- Store caramel apples in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for best freshness.
