Homemade Caramel Apples

Key Takeaways: Homemade Caramel Apples

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 12–14 caramel apples
• Best apples: Firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith, Fuji or Honeycrisp
• Method: Dip apples in melted caramel, then add chocolate and your favorite toppings
• Key tip: Wash and dry the apples really well so the caramel sticks instead of sliding off
• Difficulty: Easy, no-bake fall treat that’s fun to customize

Ingredients Needed

Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.

• Apples: You can’t have caramel apples without the apples. Just make sure they are thoroughly washed before using.
• Caramel: I love using Peter’s caramel as it melts so easily and makes the perfect caramel apple.
• Melting wafers: Melt the wafers to go on apples on the outside. Use either white or chocolate wafers. The melted chocolate will help keep the toppings sticking.
• Sticks: You can use either popsicle sticks, craft sticks, or lollipop sticks for the top of the apples. Remove the stem and place the stick straight up and down into the stem.

How to Make Homemade Caramel Apples

Step 1: Use Fit fruit cleaner and a scrub brush. Scrub/wash the apples with warm water for about 30 seconds, then place on a towel and let dry completely. When apples are dry, place sticks in the center of the apple.

Step 2: Place caramel in a microwavable bowl. Heat for 1 minute, stir, and then cook for an additional minute. Add more time if needed, until it’s totally melted. You can also place it in a slow cooker and allow it to melt that way.

Step 3: Dip apples in the caramel, leaving about one inch around the top. Hold up the apples to allow any excess to drip off and then use a spatula to scrape it off the bottom.

Step 4: If adding toppings, immediately roll dipped apples in the coating of choice. If dipping in chocolate or adding a chocolate drizzle, caramel must set completely first. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set. Place in the fridge for 5-10 minutes to set faster, but do not store in the fridge!

Helpful Tips

• Wash your apples thoroughly. I like to use FIT cleaner, a scrubber, and warm water to remove the wax. You could also use fine-grit sandpaper to lightly remove the wax from the apple.
• Dry the apples completely. Any wax or moisture left on the apple will prevent the caramel from sticking.
• Prepare ingredients beforehand. Get all your ingredients ready before making the caramel, because you’ll want to move quickly once you dip them.
• Use high-quality caramel. My favorite type to use is Peter’s or Werther’s caramel. I usually use half of the block for 12 apples and wrap the rest for later. You can also use a from scratch homemade caramel recipe.
• Let caramel cool before dipping. Allow the easy caramel sauce recipe to cool for a few minutes before dipping the apples.
• Allow excess caramel to drip off. Once you dip your apple, hold it up for about 20 seconds to allow any excess caramel to drip off. Then scrape off the bottom with a spatula.

Gourmet Caramel Apple Toppings

• Sea salt: Give these apples a sweet and salty apple surprise! It is a classic flavor and everyone loves how simple it is.
• Drizzled chocolate: A chocolate lover’s dream! It melts perfectly and always looks so decadent and tastes delicious!
• Chopped nuts: Pecans, almonds, peanuts, or walnuts are all great ways to add a crunchy, sweet, and salty taste!
• Candy: Use mini M&M’s, mini chocolate chips, chopped Snickers, crushed Butterfingers, Reese’s pieces, chopped peanut butter cups or candy corn.
• Crushed Oreos, pretzels or toffee: Add on the warm caramel or coat apples in melted chocolate then add crushed Oreos, pretzels or toffee.
• Apple pie: Dip in melted white chocolate then dust with cinnamon sugar and graham cracker crumbs.
• Sprinkles: Every kid to adult loves the bright and cheerful sprinkles attached to the apples.

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