Caramel Apple Slices with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe
Introduction
Caramel Apple Slices are a delightful treat that combines the crisp freshness of apples with rich, homemade caramel. Perfect for fall gatherings or a sweet snack, these slices can be enhanced with melted chocolate and nuts for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter
- 6 oz. dark chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 tablespoon oil (for chocolate, optional)
- 6 medium apples, washed and sliced
- ½ cup chopped nuts of choice (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (for apple slices)
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the caramel sauce by combining granulated sugar, water, and kosher salt in a medium pot over high heat. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the sugar melts and begins to turn a light caramel color.
- Step 2: Remove the pot from heat and carefully add the heavy cream (the caramel will bubble up). Return to a low heat and stir constantly until the sauce is smooth.
- Step 3: Turn off the heat and stir in the cold unsalted butter until fully melted and smooth. Transfer the caramel sauce to a tall container to cool and thicken.
- Step 4: If using chocolate, melt the dark chocolate chips with oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds, stir, and repeat until the chocolate is fully melted.
- Step 5: While the caramel cools, wash and slice the apples lengthwise or into individual slices. Toss the slices with lemon juice to prevent browning, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Step 6: Optionally, insert sticks into the apple slices. Dip each slice slowly into the caramel, allowing excess to drip off, then place on parchment paper.
- Step 7: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the caramel apple slices if desired. Drizzle melted chocolate over the top using a fork, then enjoy immediately or refrigerate uncovered until serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance with the sweet caramel.
- Replace dark chocolate with white or milk chocolate for different flavor profiles.
- For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel before it sets.
- To keep apple slices fresh longer, coat them lightly with lemon juice right after slicing.
Storage
Store caramel apple slices uncovered in the refrigerator to prevent them from becoming soggy. They will keep well for 1-2 days. Let them come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving. If drizzled with chocolate, consume within a day for best texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use pre-made caramel sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, pre-made caramel sauce can be used for convenience, but homemade caramel offers a fresher, richer flavor and a smoother texture.
How do I prevent apple slices from browning?
Toss the apple slices in lemon juice immediately after cutting to slow oxidation and keep them looking fresh for longer.
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Caramel Apple Slices with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Delicious caramel apple slices featuring a rich homemade caramel sauce and optional melted dark chocolate drizzle. Perfectly crisp apple slices are coated with smooth, golden caramel and can be topped with chopped nuts for added crunch. A sweet, easy-to-make treat ideal for fall or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Caramel Sauce
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter
Melted Chocolate (Optional)
- 6 oz. dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon oil
Apple Slices
- 6 medium apples, washed and sliced
- ½ cup chopped nuts of choice (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon (for tossing apple slices)
Instructions
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium pot over high heat, combine granulated sugar, water, and kosher salt. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and turns a light caramel color. Remove from heat and slowly add the heavy cream; be careful as the caramel will bubble up. Return to low heat and stir constantly until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Turn off heat and stir in the cold unsalted butter until fully incorporated. Pour the caramel sauce into a tall container to cool and thicken.
- Prepare the Chocolate Sauce (Optional): In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare the Apples: While the caramel cools, wash and slice the apples lengthwise into individual slices. Toss the slices in lemon juice to prevent browning. Pat the slices dry on paper towels to remove excess moisture before dipping.
- Dip Apple Slices in Caramel: If desired, place each apple slice on a stick. Slowly dip each slice into the caramel sauce, allowing excess to drip back into the container. Lay the dipped slices on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
- Add Toppings and Finish: While the caramel is still tacky, sprinkle chopped nuts over the apple slices if using. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the slices using a fork for a decorative finish. Serve immediately or refrigerate uncovered until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use lemon juice on apple slices to prevent browning and keep them fresh-looking.
- Make sure apple slices are dry before dipping to ensure the caramel sticks well.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter caramel sauce, though it may be less rich.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and vegan butter alternatives.
- Store caramel apple slices in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: caramel apple slices, caramel apples, homemade caramel sauce, dipped apple slices, easy apple dessert, fall treats
