Description
This classic Caramel Apple recipe features crisp Granny Smith apples coated in a rich, smooth homemade caramel made from brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, corn syrup, and butter. Finished with a touch of vanilla and a sprinkle of decorative toppings, these sweet treats are perfect for fall celebrations, parties, or anytime you crave a nostalgic dessert.
Ingredients
Caramel
- 2 cups light brown sugar
- 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Apples & Decoration
- 10 Granny Smith apples
- 10 thick wooden skewers
- Sprinkles (finely chopped nuts, mini M&Ms, crushed Oreos, or mini chocolate chips) for decorating
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Rinse the apples in boiling water to remove any waxy residue from the skin, ensuring the caramel sticks well. Thoroughly dry each apple.
- Insert Skewers: Remove apple stems and insert a thick wooden skewer into the top of each apple. Place the skewered apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until ready to dip.
- Make Caramel Base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine light brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter. Stir the mixture to combine evenly.
- Simmer Caramel: Bring the mixture to a simmer while stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Monitor Temperature: Using a candy thermometer, continue simmering and stirring the caramel until it reaches 230-240°F (soft ball stage), approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from Heat: Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the saucepan from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.
- Flavor Caramel: Stir in vanilla extract and kosher salt gently, taking care not to overmix for a smooth finish.
- Dip Apples: Quickly dip each cold apple into the warm caramel to coat most of the surface. Hold the apples upside down for a few seconds to let the caramel set, then place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Decorate Apples: While the caramel is still warm and tacky, sprinkle the tops with your choice of finely chopped nuts, mini M&Ms, crushed Oreos, or mini chocolate chips for added texture and color.
- Set Caramel: Allow the caramel-coated apples to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to fully set the caramel coating before serving.
Notes
- Removing wax from apples is essential for proper caramel adhesion.
- Use a candy thermometer for precise caramel cooking to avoid grainy texture.
- Work quickly when dipping apples as caramel hardens fast.
- Store caramel apples in a cool place or refrigerator to maintain freshness.
- Customize decoration toppings to suit your taste or party theme.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
