Gooey Caramel Apple Slices Recipe: A Sweet Fall Treat

Sweet memories of autumn dance through my favorite caramel apple slices recipe that brings nostalgia and comfort to every bite.

Crisp orchard apples meet rich, golden caramel in a delightful combination that sparks joy.

Childhood weekend traditions come rushing back with this simple yet magical treat.

Thick, luscious caramel coats each perfectly sliced apple wedge, creating a mouthwatering experience.

Weeknight desserts can transform into something special with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Weekend baking becomes an adventure when you craft these irresistible slices that everyone will adore.

Watching faces light up as friends savor each sweet, gooey bite makes this recipe pure magic.

Why Everyone Loves Caramel Apple Slices

• These caramel apple slices transform traditional caramel apples into easy-to-eat party-friendly treats that take just minutes to assemble.
• Perfect for children's hands, these slices eliminate messy eating and provide neat, bite-sized portions that kids can enjoy without sticky struggles.
• Ideal for Halloween parties, fall gatherings, or casual dessert events where guests want a simple yet impressive sweet treat that looks professionally crafted.
• Easily dress up these slices with optional toppings like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or drizzled chocolate to match any theme or personal preference.

Ingredients Required for Caramel Apple Slices

• Apples: Crisp, sweet apples work best with firm texture; choose varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala for ideal caramel coating.

• Wooden Sticks or Skewers: Helps hold apple slices for easy dipping and eating; wooden craft sticks or sturdy skewers recommended.
• Paring Knife or Small Cookie Cutter: Essential for creating clean, even apple rounds and removing seeds and core center.

Simple Steps to Make Caramel Apple Slices

Step 1: Prepare Apple Slices

Grab fresh, crisp apples and wash them carefully under cool running water. Pat the apples completely dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a sharp paring knife, slice the apples into even rounds about 1/2-inch thick. Carefully remove the core and seeds from the center of each slice, creating perfect apple medallions.

Step 2: Secure Skewers

Take wooden skewers or popsicle sticks and gently insert them into the bottom of each apple slice. Press firmly but carefully to ensure the stick stays securely in place without splitting the apple slice.

Step 3: Create Caramel Coating

• Granulated sugar
• Corn syrup
• Heavy cream
• Butter
• Vanilla extract

Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it reaches a smooth, golden-brown consistency. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the perfect temperature for a glossy, rich coating.

Step 4: Dip Apple Slices

Remove the caramel from heat and let it cool slightly for a minute. Carefully dip each apple slice into the warm caramel, twirling to ensure complete coverage. Gently tap the stick on the pan’s edge to remove excess caramel.

Step 5: Add Optional Toppings

• Chopped nuts
• Crushed graham crackers
• Chocolate chips
• Sprinkles

Place the finished slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and set.

Step 6: Chill And Serve

Transfer the caramel apple slices to the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help the caramel firm up. Arrange on a decorative platter and serve chilled for a delightful treat that combines sweet caramel with crisp apple perfection.

Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Slices

• Clean Apples Carefully: Thoroughly wash and dry apples to help caramel adhere perfectly without sliding off.
• Perfect Slice Technique: Cut uniform 1/2-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife, ensuring even caramel coating and attractive presentation.
• Remove Core Smartly: Use a small cookie cutter or paring knife to neatly remove seeds and center, creating a clean, professional-looking apple slice.
• Secure Stick Properly: Gently insert wooden stick or skewer into apple slice's base, ensuring it's stable and centered for easy handling.
• Chill Before Coating: Refrigerate apple slices for 15 minutes before caramel dipping to help caramel set quickly and create a smoother finish.

How to Keep Caramel Apple Slices Fresh

• Store caramel apple slices in an airtight container, placing wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks, preserving their delicious texture and flavor.
• Remove frozen slices from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying. Avoid microwaving to maintain caramel's smooth consistency.
• If caramel seems slightly hardened after storage, gently warm slices in the oven at 200°F for 2-3 minutes to restore their original soft, glossy finish.

Snacks That Go with Caramel Apple Slices

• Match caramel apple slices with a warm cup of spiced chai tea, creating a cozy flavor harmony that complements the sweet and creamy caramel.
• Select a late-harvest Riesling with its slight sweetness and crisp acidity, which beautifully balances the rich caramel and fresh apple notes.
• Serve alongside toasted pecan or almond brittle to add a delightful crunch and nutty undertone that enhances the overall dessert experience.
• Pair with a shot of rich espresso or cappuccino, allowing the coffee's robust flavor to cut through the sweetness and provide a sophisticated contrast.

New Variations on Caramel Apple Slices

• Vegan Caramel Delight: Replace dairy caramel with coconut milk-based caramel sauce, using maple syrup and coconut cream for a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure caramel is made with gluten-free ingredients and use certified gluten-free wooden sticks to prevent cross-contamination.
• Nut-Free Variation: Swap traditional caramel for a seed butter-based coating like sunflower seed butter, making it safe for those with nut allergies.
• Low-Sugar Version: Use sugar-free caramel substitute with stevia or monk fruit sweetener, creating a diabetic-friendly treat that maintains delicious flavor.

Caramel Apple Slices Recipe FAQs

• Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any firm apple variety like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Just ensure the apples are fresh and crisp for the best texture.

• Do I need any special equipment to make caramel apple slices?

You’ll need a wooden skewer or stick, a sharp knife, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. A candy thermometer is helpful but not mandatory.

• How do I prevent the caramel from sliding off the apple slices?

Pat the apple slices completely dry before dipping and make sure the surface is free from moisture. Chilling the slices briefly before caramel coating can also help the caramel adhere better.

• Can I add toppings to my caramel apple slices?

Absolutely! After dipping in caramel, roll the slices in chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or crushed graham crackers while the caramel is still warm.

Caramel Apple Slices Recipe

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4.7 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 8 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Caramel apple slices bring autumn’s sweet symphony to life with perfect balance of crisp fruit and rich golden caramel. Indulgent layers of flavor invite dessert enthusiasts to savor this classic seasonal treat you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 3 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala)
• 1 package (11 ounces) soft caramel candies, unwrapped

Binding/Liquid Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)

Dipping and Topping Ingredients:

• 1 wooden stick or skewer for dipping
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
• ¼ cup crushed nuts (peanuts, almonds, or pecans)
• ¼ cup mini marshmallows
• ¼ cup sprinkles
• ¼ cup crushed graham crackers
• 1 pinch sea salt

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Instructions

1. Meticulously cleanse the apples under cool running water, patting them completely dry with clean paper towels to create an optimal surface for caramel adhesion.
2. Carefully slice the apples into uniform half-inch thick circular medallions using a sharp chef’s knife, ensuring precise and even cuts.
3. Extract the central core from each apple slice with a small circular cookie cutter or paring knife, removing seeds and creating a clean, smooth surface.
4. Gently pierce each apple slice near the edge with a sturdy wooden skewer or stick, providing a convenient handle for dipping and coating.
5. Position a heat-resistant parchment-lined baking sheet nearby to place the caramel-coated apple slices after dipping.
6. Prepare the caramel mixture in a heavy-bottomed saucepan, stirring continuously to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, glossy consistency.
7. Remove the caramel from heat and tilt the pan slightly to create a deep pool for efficient dipping of the apple slices.
8. Dunk each apple slice into the warm caramel, twirling gently to ensure complete and even coverage from edge to edge.
9. Allow excess caramel to drip off briefly before placing the coated slice onto the prepared parchment sheet.
10. Optional: Immediately sprinkle additional toppings like chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips while the caramel remains tacky.
11. Let the caramel-coated apple slices cool and set at room temperature until the coating hardens completely.

Notes

• Pat apples completely dry to guarantee caramel adheres perfectly without sliding off.
• Choose crisp, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and tart contrast with sweet caramel.
• Chill apple slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet before dipping to help caramel set faster and more evenly.
• For dietary variations, swap traditional caramel with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk caramel or use vegan caramel chips for plant-based versions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 510 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 15mg