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
Scale
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
