Irresistible Autumn Delights: Easy Caramel Apples to Savor
Fall is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a batch of mouthwatering Easy Caramel Apples? This foolproof recipe guarantees delectable results every time, offering you a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Whether you’re reliving cherished childhood memories or creating new ones, these caramel-coated treats are a timeless favorite that brings joy to all.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6 caramel apples
History of the Dish:
Caramel apples have a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. They were first created by a confectioner who sought to showcase leftover caramels by dipping apples into the sweet concoction. Over the years, this simple treat evolved into a beloved autumn tradition, gracing county fairs, festivals, and family gatherings with its delightful combination of flavors.
Irresistibly Delicious Homemade Caramel Apples Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Setting Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4 caramel apples
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-size apples
- 4 caramel apple sticks
- 1 package (9 oz.) Werther’s Original Baking Caramels or Chewy Caramels, unwrapped
- 1 tablespoon milk
Ingredient Tips
- Choose firm and crisp apples like Granny Smith or Fuji for the best results.
- If you can’t find caramel apple sticks, wooden popsicle sticks work just as well.
Expanded Ingredient Information:
- Apples: Choose medium-sized apples with smooth, unblemished skin for the best results. Varieties like Granny Smith, Gala, or Red Delicious work wonderfully.
- Caramel Apple Sticks: These sticks make handling the apples easier while dipping and eating. Look for sturdy sticks designed for caramel apples in craft or baking stores.
- Werther’s Original Baking Caramels: These caramels are known for their rich flavor and superior setting qualities. Their luscious melt-in-your-mouth texture ensures a delightful caramel coating. YOu can substitute with the Werther’s Original Chewy Caramels as well.
- Milk: Adding a touch of milk to the caramel enhances the creaminess of the caramel coating, ensuring it clings to the apples perfectly.
How to Make Caramel Apples:
Step 1: Prep Apples
- Gently wash the apples using an abrasive scrub sponge and a few drops of dish detergent. Rinse the apples thoroughly and dry them well.
- Remove the stems from the apples and insert the caramel apple sticks into the tops of the apples. Set the prepared apples aside.
Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace
- Line a 13-inch by 9-inch baking sheet or baking dish with parchment paper. For added convenience, you can lightly spray the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray before placing it in the refrigerator. This step ensures easy removal of the caramel-coated apples later.
Step 3: Make the Caramel
- In a tall, deep microwave-safe bowl (approximately 5 cups in volume), combine the Werther’s Original Baking Caramels and the milk.
- Heat the caramel mixture in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval. Continue this process until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. This should take around 2 to 3 minutes. If the caramel appears too runny, allow it to cool slightly to achieve the desired consistency.
Step 4: Dip the Apples
- Hold each apple by its stick and dip it into the melted caramel at a slight angle. This allows the caramel to cover the apple almost to the top center, or even to the top if you prefer.
- Rotate and turn the apple while dipping to ensure even coating. Lift the apple slowly from the caramel, allowing excess caramel to drip back into the bowl.
- Gently drag the bottom of the apple along the inside edge of the bowl to remove any excess caramel.
- Turn the apple upside down briefly to let the caramel run up the apple slightly. Immediately roll the caramel-coated apple in your preferred toppings or sprinkle the toppings over the caramel before it sets.
Step 5: Set the Caramel
- Place the coated apples upright on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the dipping process with the remaining apples.
- If needed, reheat the caramel in the microwave in 15-second intervals to maintain a runny consistency for dipping.
Step 6: Allow Caramel to Set
- Let the caramel-coated apples sit on the baking sheet until the caramel sets completely. This usually takes about 30 minutes when placed in the fridge. While you can enjoy the caramel apples before this point, waiting the full 30 minutes ensures a firmer caramel coating.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- When you’re ready to indulge, cut the caramel-coated apples into slices and savor the delectable combination of flavors and textures. These treats are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a delightful personal indulgence.
Storage Tips:
Store any leftover caramel apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To enjoy the best texture and flavor, consume them within 2 days.
With this comprehensive recipe, you’re all set to create these irresistible homemade caramel apples. Enjoy the process of dipping, decorating, and savoring these delightful treats that perfectly capture the essence of the fall season.
Expert Tips:
- Choose apples with firm, unblemished skins for the best results.
- Allow the caramel-coated apples to cool on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- For a glossy finish, lightly grease the parchment paper before placing the dipped apples.
Optional Toppings:
Enhance your caramel apples with a touch of creativity by adding 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
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Remove the stems and insert wooden sticks into the stem end of each apple. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Unwrap the Werther’s Chewy Caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add the heavy cream or evaporated milk.
- Microwave the caramels and cream in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Holding an apple by the stick, carefully dip it into the melted caramel, swirling to coat evenly. Allow excess caramel to drip back into the bowl.
- Place the caramel-coated apple onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining apples.
- If desired, add optional toppings while the caramel is still slightly tacky.
- Let the caramel-coated apples cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Storage and Leftovers:
Caramel apples are best enjoyed on the same day they are made. To store any leftovers, wrap them individually in wax paper or plastic wrap, and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before enjoying, let the apples sit at room temperature for a few minutes to slightly soften the caramel.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels? A: While store-bought caramel sauce or homemade caramel sauce can be used, melting caramels provides a thicker and more indulgent caramel coating that adheres well to the apples.
Q: Can I make caramel apples in advance for a party? A: While caramel apples are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare them a few hours before your event and store them in the refrigerator. Just remember that the texture may slightly change over time.
Alternate Names:
- Toffee Apples
- Candy-Coated Apples
- Caramel-Dipped Apples
Get ready to savor the essence of autumn with these Easy Caramel Apples. Whether you’re indulging in nostalgia or sharing the joy with loved ones, these treats are a delightful way to welcome the season. So, roll up your sleeves and let the caramel-coating adventure begin!
For more seasonal recipes and inspiration, visit our Halloween Food board on Pinterest. Your taste buds are in for a hauntingly good time!
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!