Irresistible Autumn Delights: Easy Caramel Apples to Savor
As fall sweeps in with its crisp air and vibrant colors, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a batch of Easy Caramel Apples. This classic treat offers a perfect blend of sweet, gooey caramel and crisp apples, making it a nostalgic favorite for all ages. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood or creating new traditions, these caramel-coated apples are sure to bring joy to your autumn gatherings.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6 caramel apples
A Sweet History
Caramel apples have been delighting taste buds since the late 19th century. Originally crafted by a confectioner who had extra caramel, this treat quickly became a staple at county fairs and family events. Its evolution into a beloved fall tradition is a testament to its enduring charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala work best)
- 4 caramel apple sticks (or wooden popsicle sticks)
- 1 package (9 oz.) Werther’s Original Baking Caramels (or Chewy Caramels), unwrapped
- 1 tablespoon milk
Ingredient Tips:
- Opt for firm, crisp apples to ensure a great texture.
- Caramel apple sticks are ideal for dipping; if unavailable, wooden popsicle sticks will do.
- Werther’s Original Caramels provide a rich flavor; for a slightly different texture, you can substitute with Chewy Caramels.
- A touch of milk makes the caramel creamier and helps it adhere to the apples.
How to Make Easy Caramel Apples
1. Prep the Apples
- Wash and dry the apples thoroughly.
- Remove stems and insert caramel apple sticks into the tops of the apples.
2. Prepare Your Workspace
- Line a 13×9-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray for easy removal of the apples.
3. Make the Caramel
- Combine Werther’s Original Caramels and milk in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth (about 2-3 minutes). Let it cool slightly if too runny.
4. Dip the Apples
- Dip each apple into the melted caramel, rotating to ensure even coverage.
- Allow excess caramel to drip back into the bowl, then drag the bottom of the apple along the bowl’s edge.
- Roll in toppings if desired, while the caramel is still tacky.
5. Set the Caramel
- Place apples upright on the prepared baking sheet.
- Reheat caramel if needed to maintain consistency for dipping.
- Let the apples cool for 30 minutes, ideally in the fridge, to set the caramel.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Cut the caramel apples into slices for sharing, or enjoy as is for a delightful treat.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best texture and flavor, consume within 2 days.
Expert Tips
- Choose firm, unblemished apples for the best results.
- Let apples cool on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Lightly grease the parchment for a glossy finish.
Optional Toppings
- Crushed nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- Colorful sprinkles for a festive touch
- Decadent chocolate chips or drizzles
- Crunchy crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet contrast
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels?
A: While store-bought caramel sauce is an option, melting caramels provides a thicker, more indulgent coating.
Q: Can I make caramel apples in advance for a party?
A: Caramel apples are best enjoyed fresh but can be prepared a few hours before your event. Keep them in the refrigerator, though the texture may change slightly over time.
Want More Delicious Recipes?
Ready to elevate your fall treats? Grab your copy of The How-To Cookbook for Teens: 100 Easy Recipes to Learn the Basics for more easy and delicious recipes that are perfect for any occasion. Plus, for additional culinary inspiration, check out my Pinterest board filled with mouthwatering recipes and tips!
Get Inspired
Explore our Halloween Food board on Pinterest for more seasonal recipes and fun ideas. Dive into the flavors of fall and discover new favorites that will make this season truly special. Happy cooking!
Browse all of our Halloween recipes right here.
Easy Caramel Apples
This easy, foolproof caramel apple recipe is nearly impossible to mess up and it makes perfectly tempting, beautiful, and tasty caramel apples.
Ingredients
- 4 medium-size apples
- 4 caramel apple sticks
- 1 pkg. (9 oz.) Werther‘s Original Baking Caramels, unwrapped
- 1 Tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Prep Apples: Wash apples by gently rubbing with an abrasive scrub sponge and a few drops of dish detergent. Rinse and dry well; remove the stem. Push sticks into tops of apples; set aside.
- Prepare work area: Prep a 13-inch by 9-inch baking sheet or baking dish with a sheet of parchment paper, spray parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray. Place in refrigerator (optional).
- Make the Caramel: Place caramels and heavy cream in a tall deep microwave-safe bowl (about 5 cups). Heat in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring well between intervals, until melted and smooth. This will take about 2 – 3 minutes. If it’s extra runny let it cool just briefly so the caramel doesn’t run off the apples.
- Dip the Apples: Dip apples one at a time into the melted caramel at an angle so it covers almost to the top center (or all the way to the top if you don’t care to have the naked apple showing through). Rotate and turn to coat apple. Lift the apple slowly, letting excess caramel run off, then gently drag the bottom of the apple along the inside edge of the bowl to remove excess caramel. Lift the apple and turn the apple upside down to let caramel run up the apple a little, then immediately roll in toppings (or sprinkle with toppings) before caramel sets. Turn apples upright and place on the prepared baking sheet, repeat the process with the remaining apples. As needed reheat caramel in the microwave in 15-second increments for a runny, dip-able consistency.
- Set: Allow caramel to set completely, about 30 minutes in the fridge (you can eat them before this but if you want the caramel to be firm, wait the full 30 minutes).
- Serve: Cut apples into slices just when ready to enjoy!
Notes
Expert Tips
- Choose firm, unblemished apples for the best results.
- Let apples cool on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Lightly grease the parchment for a glossy finish.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 410Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 341mgCarbohydrates: 107gFiber: 9gSugar: 94gProtein: 3g
The Nutritional Information may not be accurate. This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the USDA Food Composition Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.