Make your own gourmet caramel apples at home with just a few simple ingredients. Using baking caramels, you can easily create a smooth caramel coating that sticks perfectly to chilled apples. Customize your apples with a variety of toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or crushed candies for a fun and delicious treat. Ideal for fall gatherings or any time you crave a sweet, caramel-covered apple. With just a few steps, you’ll have a festive and fun dessert that everyone will love.
These Gourmet Caramel Apples are a perfect treat for fall, bringing together sweet, creamy caramel with fresh apples. Customize them with your favorite toppings for a fun, delicious dessert that’s great for kids and adults alike.
INGREDIENTS
- Baking Caramels: 11 ounces, melts smoothly for a perfect caramel coating.
- Water: 3 tablespoons, helps the caramels achieve the right consistency when melted.
- Apples: 5-6 smaller apples, easier to handle and coat with caramel.
- Popsicle Sticks: For inserting into the apples, making them easier to dip and eat.
- Toppings: Choose from nuts, sprinkles, or crushed candy to add flavor and texture.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Rinse the apples, remove the stems, dry them with a paper towel, and refrigerate until ready to make the treat. Insert a popsicle stick into the core of each apple and set aside.
- Step 2:
- Line a baking sheet or dish with parchment paper and spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 3:
- Unwrap the caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the water and microwave for 2 minutes, then stir well. Continue microwaving at 30-second intervals if needed, stirring until the caramel is completely melted and smooth.
- Step 4:
- Insert a popsicle stick into each apple. Dunk the apples into the melted caramel, letting the excess drip off back into the bowl. Quickly roll the caramel-coated apple in your chosen toppings, if desired.
- Step 5:
- Place the coated apples on the prepared parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the caramel to set and toppings to adhere before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the caramel apples chilled for a refreshing, sweet treat.
- For the best texture, enjoy them within 24 hours of making them.
- Store leftover caramel apples in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
- To make the apples easier to eat, slice them into wedges just before serving.
Helpful Notes
- If the caramel starts to harden while dipping, reheat it in the microwave in 15-second intervals until smooth again.
- Using smaller apples helps ensure a better caramel-to-apple ratio.
- Chilling the apples before dipping helps the caramel stick better to the surface.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Thomas Keller suggests adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for an extra depth of flavor.
- Chef Martha Stewart recommends using organic apples for the best taste and texture in homemade caramel apples.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- It’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
- The combination of tart apples with sweet caramel is a classic fall treat.
- They make great gifts or party favors, wrapped in cellophane with a festive ribbon.
VARIATIONS
- Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Use crushed pretzels or toffee bits as a crunchy topping.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel for a spiced twist.