The Best Homemade Caramel Apple Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This caramel apple recipe brings joy to your kitchen with its simple steps and delightful flavors. You’ll love it because it’s easy to make, uses everyday ingredients, and creates a sweet treat everyone will adore.
- Perfect for fall: The combination of crisp apples and creamy caramel screams the season.
- Kid-friendly fun: Get the whole family involved in dipping and decorating.
- Customizable toppings: Add your favorites, like nuts, sprinkles, or chocolate drizzle.
Recipe
Nothing beats the classic combination of sweet caramel and crisp apples. This homemade caramel apple recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for fall gatherings or a fun treat.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 wooden sticks
Instructions:
- Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Remove any stems and insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water. Stir until sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let the mixture boil until it turns a deep amber color (about 10-12 minutes).
- Carefully add the heavy cream while stirring constantly—the mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Let the caramel cool slightly (about 2 minutes), then dip each apple, swirling to coat evenly. Let excess caramel drip off.
- Place the coated apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes:
- Work quickly when dipping apples, as caramel thickens as it cools.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 6 caramel apples
Nutrition
Enjoy the rich flavors of caramel apples while being mindful of their nutritional content. Here’s the breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 85mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 40g |
| Protein | 2g |
What To Serve With It
Caramel apples are delicious on their own, but pairing them with ice cream takes them to the next level—try vanilla or cinnamon for a cozy twist. If you’re serving them at a gathering, a cheese board with sharp cheddar or creamy brie balances the sweetness perfectly. Trust me, these combos will make your caramel apples the star of the show!
Ice Cream Pairings
A creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect partner for homemade caramel apples. Its smooth, cool flavor balances the rich, sticky sweetness of the caramel, creating a treat that’s hard to resist. I love how the caramel hardens slightly on the cold ice cream, adding a fun texture contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try salted caramel or butter pecan ice cream—they’ll deepen the caramel flavor with a hint of nuttiness. For a fruity twist, pair your caramel apple with a scoop of cinnamon or apple pie ice cream. The combinations are endless, and each bite feels like a little celebration.
Cheese Board Ideas
When I’m putting together a cheese board, I like to think of it as a tiny party on a plate, where every element gets a chance to shine. I start with a mix of cheeses—like sharp cheddar, creamy brie, and tangy goat cheese—then add sweet and savory bites to balance the flavors. Fresh grapes, sliced apples, and dried apricots bring a touch of sweetness, while nuts and olives add crunch and saltiness. I’ll throw in some crackers or crusty bread for texture, and maybe a dollop of honey or jam for dipping. It’s simple, but it always feels fancy.
