5 from 24 votes
Easy Caramel Apples
Easy Caramel Apples use small Granny Smith apples coated in melted chewy caramel combined with heavy cream. They can be customized with various toppings for texture and flavor contrasts. This classic fall treat balances the crisp tartness of apples with smooth, sweet caramel and optional crunchy or colorful toppings.
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
3 mins
Additional Time
30 mins
Total Time
53 mins
Servings:
21
Course:
Dessert
Cuisine:
American
Ingredients
- 7 small apple about 2 1/4 lbs, Granny Smith variety
- 15 oz. caramels such as Werther's Chewy
- 3 Tbsp heavy cream
- Various toppings, optional (see notes(**)
Instructions
- Rinse and thoroughly dry apples with a paper towel. Insert a caramel apple stick***. Having toppings ready if you'll be adding some to apples.
- Line a 13 by 9-inch baking sheet or baking dish with a sheet of parchment paper, spray parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray, set in the fridge.
- Place caramels and heavy cream in a microwave safe bowl (about 5 cup size bowl)****.
- Heat in microwave in 30 second increments, stirring well between intervals, until melted and smooth. This will take about 2 - 3 minutes. If caramel is extra runny let it cool just briefly so it doesn't run right off the apples.
- Dip apples one at a time into caramel on an angle so it covers nearly to the top center. Rotate and turn to coat apple. Lift apple and let excess run off, then run bottom of apple along inside edge of bowl to remove excess caramel. Lift apple and turn 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 prepared baking sheet in fridge, repeat process with remaining apples. As needed reheat caramel in microwave in 15 second increments for a runny, dip-able consistency.
- Allow caramel to set completely, about 30 minutes in the fridge (you can eat them before this but if you want caramel to firm back up the wait the 30 minutes). Cut apples into slices just when ready to enjoy so they don't brown.
Cup of Yum
Notes
- Use firm Granny Smith apples and ensure they are completely dry before dipping for best adhesion.
- Kraft caramels can be used, but Werther's chewy caramels are preferred for better taste and coating consistency; avoid Werther's soft caramels.
- Prepare toppings such as crushed nuts, candy bars, sprinkles, or sea salt in advance for easy application.
- Caramel can be melted on the stovetop over medium-low heat with constant stirring as an alternative to microwave melting.
- Lollipop sticks or popsicle sticks work well for holding the apples.