Caramel Apples are a classic fall favorite crisp, juicy apples coated in a rich, glossy homemade caramel. They’re perfect for Halloween parties, fall festivals, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or a fun family activity. This recipe is simple, reliable, and tested to ensure the caramel sticks beautifully every time.
📋 Ingredients (Makes 6 Caramel Apples)
- 6 medium apples (Gala, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)
- 6 wooden sticks
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter
- ¼ cup (60 ml) light corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
Crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies, sprinkles
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the apples
- Wash apples well and dry completely. Any moisture prevents caramel from sticking.
- Insert wooden sticks and set apples on a parchment-lined tray.
2. Make the caramel
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and 2 tablespoons of water.
- Cook over medium heat without stirring until the mixture turns a deep golden amber.
- Remove from heat and slowly whisk in heavy cream (it will bubble vigorously).
- Add butter, vanilla, and salt.
- Stir until completely smooth and glossy.
- Let caramel cool for 3–5 minutes to thicken slightly.
3. Dip the apples
- Dip each apple into the caramel, rotating to coat evenly.
- Allow excess caramel to drip off.
- Place on parchment and add toppings immediately before the caramel sets.
4. Set and serve
- Let the apples set at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
- Serve the same day or refrigerate up to 2 days.
💡 Tips for Success
- Dry apples thoroughly: Even a tiny amount of moisture will cause caramel to slide off.
- Let the caramel cool slightly before dipping: If it’s too hot, it will be thin and runny.
- If caramel becomes too thick: Add 1–2 teaspoons of warm cream and stir.
- Use small or medium apples: Caramel adheres better and they’re easier to eat.
- Avoid waxy apples: If apples are waxed, dip them briefly in hot water and dry completely to remove the wax.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why won’t my caramel stick?
Most often, the apples weren’t fully dried or the caramel was too hot when dipping.
Can I make caramel apples ahead of time?
Yes, but they are best served within 24 hours. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I use store-bought caramels instead?
Yes—melt caramel candies with a splash of cream for a shortcut version.
What apples work best?
Crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala hold up well and taste great with caramel.
🔢 Yield, Nutrition & Time
- Yield: 6 caramel apples
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Estimated Nutrition (per apple):
- Calories: ~310
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 50g
- Sugars: 48g
- Protein: 1g
🧾 Conclusion
These easy homemade Caramel Apples are the perfect fall treat fun to make, beautifully glossy, and packed with rich caramel flavor. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday gathering or making them with kids on a cozy weekend, they always bring joy to the table.