Classic Caramel Apples

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Classic Caramel Apples

Yield: 6

Author: Jennifer Cartier

Prep time: 1 H & 15 MInactive time: 1 HourTotal time: 2 H & 15 M

Caramel apples are a delicious, nostalgic treat that combines the crispness of apples with the rich sweetness of caramel. Perfect for fall festivals, Halloween, or any time you’re craving something indulgent! This easy-to-follow recipe will help you make perfect caramel apples at home, with a smooth, creamy caramel coating and endless topping options.

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Ingredients

• 6 medium to large tart apples (Granny Smith apples work best, but you can use your favourite variety)
• 1 package (14 oz) individually wrapped caramels (about 40 caramels)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, but enhances the flavour)
• Wooden sticks (craft sticks, popsicle sticks, or skewers)

Optional Toppings

• Crushed nuts (e.g., peanuts, pecans, almonds, walnuts)
• Sprinkles (chocolate, rainbow, or holiday-themed)
• Mini chocolate chips
• Crushed cookies (e.g., Oreos or graham crackers)
• Sea salt or coarse salt for a salted caramel touch

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

1. Wash the apples thoroughly to remove any wax coating. Dry them completely with a clean towel. This is important because the caramel will stick better to dry apples.
2. Insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple, where the stem is. Push it in about 2-3 inches deep so it stays secure.
3. If you want to make the apples easier to dip, you can place them in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour to chill. Cold apples help the caramel set more quickly.

Make the Caramel

1. Unwrap the caramels and place them in a medium saucepan. Add the heavy cream (or milk) and a pinch of salt, if desired.
2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the caramels are completely melted and smooth. Be patient and stir frequently to prevent the caramel from burning.
3. Once the caramel is smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Dip the Apples

1. Hold each apple by the stick and dip it into the warm caramel, swirling the apple to coat it evenly. Make sure the caramel coats the apple up to the top, but not all the way to the stick.
2. Allow any excess caramel to drip off before placing the coated apple on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a tray lined with wax paper.

Add Toppings (Optional)

1. If you’d like to add toppings, immediately sprinkle or roll the caramel-coated apples in your choice of crushed nuts, chocolate chips, sprinkles, or other toppings. The caramel will set as it cools, so you want to add toppings while it’s still warm and sticky.
2. For a fun twist, you can drizzle some melted chocolate (either milk, dark, or white chocolate) over the caramel layer after it’s set for extra flavour and decoration.

Cool and Set

1. Place the dipped apples in the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes to allow the caramel to firm up. If you're in a rush, you can refrigerate them to speed up the process.
2. \Once the caramel has set and is firm to the touch, the apples are ready to serve!

Notes

Tips for Perfect Caramel Apples:

• Choosing Apples: Opt for firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best contrast with the sweet, rich caramel. If you like a sweeter apple, Honeycrisp or Gala are also good options.

• Melt the Caramel Slowly: Be patient when melting the caramel; don’t crank up the heat, or it might burn. Stir constantly to ensure a smooth consistency.

• Chill the Apples First: Chilled apples are easier to coat with caramel and the caramel will set faster, so it's worth the extra time to chill them beforehand.

• Avoid Cracking: If your caramel cracks or separates, it could be because the apples were too warm, or the caramel cooled too quickly. Try keeping the apples chilled and dipping them into slightly cooler caramel for a smoother coat.

• Storage: Store caramel apples in the fridge to keep the caramel firm. You can also keep them at room temperature for a few hours, but they’re best enjoyed within 1-2 days.

• Topping Ideas: Get creative with toppings! Try crushed candy bars, coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of peanut butter for a different flavour twist.

Recommended Products

SENSARTE Nonstick Sauce Pan with Lid, 1.5QT

Baking Sheet Cookie Sheet Set of 2

6 Inch Natural Bamboo Small Skewers (100 Pack)

Nutrition Facts

Calories

220

Fat

7 g

Sat. Fat

2 g

Carbs

40 g

Fiber

5 g

Net carbs

36 g

Sugar

30 g

Protein

2 g

Sodium

179 mg

Cholesterol

7 mg

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Tag @thecartierskitchen on instagram and hashtag it #cartierskitchen

Enjoy!

These Caramel Apples are the perfect fall treat—sweet, crunchy, and satisfying. They’re fun to make, easy to customize, and will impress your friends and family at any gathering. Whether you're making them for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or just for a special treat, these caramel apples will always hit the spot.