Description
Outrageous Caramel Apples are a delightful twist on the classic treat, featuring crisp apples dipped in rich, gooey caramel and adorned with a variety of sweet, salty, and crunchy toppings. Perfect for any occasion, these caramel apples combine unique flavor combinations with an eye-catching presentation that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Apples
- Crisp, firm apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp (quantity as desired)
Caramel
- Soft buttery caramel candies or homemade caramel sauce (amount sufficient to coat apples)
Toppings
- Mixed nuts (e.g., chopped pecans, almonds, or peanuts)
- Candies (such as crushed candy canes or small candy pieces)
- Chocolate chips
- Coarse sea salt
- Colorful sprinkles
Additional Items
- Wooden sticks for handling apples
- Optional drizzle: melted chocolate, white chocolate, or butterscotch (for decoration)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Wash and dry your apples thoroughly to ensure the caramel sticks perfectly. Insert a wooden stick firmly into each apple’s core for easy dipping and handling.
- Melt the Caramel: Heat caramel candies or homemade caramel in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and glossy. Avoid burning by keeping the heat moderate and stirring consistently.
- Dip the Apples: Hold the apple by the stick and dip it into the warm caramel, turning to coat evenly. Allow excess caramel to drip off before setting the apple on a parchment-lined tray.
- Add Toppings: While the caramel is still warm and sticky, generously sprinkle your choice of nuts, candies, or other toppings over the apples. Press gently to help toppings adhere.
- Chill and Finish: Place the apples in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the caramel to set fully. Optionally, drizzle with melted chocolate or white chocolate once cooled for an extra decorative touch.
Notes
- Choose firm apples that won’t soften quickly under the caramel coating.
- Dry apples thoroughly to ensure the caramel adheres properly.
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor caramel temperature and avoid burning.
- Work quickly as caramel cools fast, be ready with toppings before dipping.
- Set apples on parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 caramel apple
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: caramel apples, caramel apple recipe, fall treats, party snacks, caramel apple toppings