Description
This Easy Caramel Apple Recipe combines crisp, chilled apples with a rich, smooth homemade caramel coating, enhanced with a touch of vanilla and salt. Perfect for a quick and delicious fall treat, it’s a simple way to enjoy a classic dessert with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 8 apples, washed and chilled
- 6 caramel apple sticks
Caramel Sauce
- 22 ounces soft caramels (such as Kraft), unwrapped (2 bags)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
Other
- Unsalted butter, for setting, storage, and display
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Wash the apples thoroughly to remove any waxy coating, then dry completely with a kitchen towel. Remove the stems and insert caramel apple sticks or popsicle sticks securely into each apple. Chill the apples in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before coating to ensure the caramel will set well.
- Prepare the work surface: Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat, wax paper, or parchment paper. Generously rub the surface with unsalted butter to prevent the caramel apples from sticking when set.
- Make the caramel sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until the caramels are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. If the mixture becomes too thick or clumpy, add 1 tablespoon of water and lower the heat to avoid scorching. Once smooth, stir in the coarse kosher salt and remove from the heat immediately to prevent burning.
- Coat the apples: Dip each chilled apple into the caramel sauce, covering about three-quarters of the apple. Gently tap the apple to release any excess caramel, then place it directly onto the prepared baking sheet. If you plan to add toppings or drizzle with chocolate, allow the caramel to set slightly before applying these.
- Set the caramel: Let the coated apples sit at room temperature for 45-60 minutes to allow the caramel to fully harden and set.
- Serve and enjoy: Once set, your caramel apples are ready to enjoy! For best results, store in a cool place or refrigerator to maintain freshness. If you try this recipe, feel free to return and share your thoughts and ratings.
Notes
- Make sure to chill the apples before dipping to help the caramel adhere better and set properly.
- If the caramel gets too thick while melting, adding a small amount of water helps thin it out without sacrificing flavor.
- Butter on the parchment or silicone mat prevents sticking, making removal easier.
- Customize your caramel apples by rolling them in nuts, sprinkles, or drizzling with melted chocolate after the initial caramel has set.
- Store caramel apples in a cool place or refrigerator, wrapped individually to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Dipping
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 caramel apple
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: caramel apples, easy caramel apples, homemade caramel, fall dessert, apple treat, caramel apple sticks, simple caramel apple recipe
