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This easy caramel apple slices recipe combines crisp, tart apples with buttery smooth caramel and a drizzle of melted chocolate for a treat that is as delicious as it is visually appealing. Perfect for snack tables or a quick sweet bite, these slices offer all the comfort of a classic caramel apple without the fuss of biting into a whole fruit.
I first made these during a busy holiday season when time was short, and now they are a go to treat my family asks for regularly.
Ingredients
- Apples: Four medium tart apples such as Granny Smith which provide the perfect balance of crispness and tang to cut through the sweetness of the caramel
- Caramel bits: Sixteen ounces of caramel bits for easy melting and smooth coating. Quality caramel bits melt more evenly
- Water: Two tablespoons of water to help dissolve the caramel bits smoothly in the microwave
- Chocolate chips: Two thirds of a cup of chocolate chips, milk or white chocolate works well for drizzle adding richness and a decorative finish
- Vegetable oil: One teaspoon of vegetable oil which thins the chocolate for a nice glossy drizzle
- Notes: Choose firm apples that are free of bruises for best texture, and pick quality chocolate chips that melt evenly without seizing.
Instructions
- Prepare baking sheets and apples:
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside. Wash the apples thoroughly under running water and pat them completely dry with a kitchen towel to ensure the caramel sticks well. Cut the apples into roughly one inch slices, cutting away from the core to leave you with perfect rounds.
- Melt the caramel:
- Add the caramel bits along with the two tablespoons of water into a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring gently in between until all the caramel bits melt into a smooth, glossy caramel sauce. Be patient and keep stirring to avoid burning or uneven melting.
- Coat apple slices:
- Place the apple slices in a single layer on the parchment lined baking sheets. Use a spoon to drizzle or dollop the melted caramel onto each apple slice. Allow the caramel to cool and set slightly at room temperature before proceeding.
- Melt the chocolate:
- While the caramel is setting, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a clean microwave safe bowl. Melt the chocolate in 30 second intervals, stirring thoroughly each time until completely smooth and glossy. This step thins the chocolate making it perfect for drizzling.
- Drizzle and set:
- Using a spoon or a small piping bag, drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel apple slices in thin, decorative lines. Let the chocolate set fully at room temperature or pop the trays briefly into the refrigerator if you want them ready faster.
- Finish and serve:
- Once set, carefully peel the apple slices off the parchment, trimming away any excess caramel that may have dripped over the sides.
One of my favorite parts about this recipe is the crispness of the Granny Smith apples contrasted with the buttery caramel. It always reminds me of fall festivals and cozy family gatherings where everyone stops for a sweet moment together.
Storage Tips
Store the apple slices in an airtight container lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep them in the refrigerator if you are not serving within a couple of hours since the apples can brown and soften over time. You can soak sliced apples in lemon juice or lime juice before assembling to help keep them fresh and bright.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute caramel bits with homemade caramel sauce if you have the time, just ensure it is thick enough to coat without running off. Dark chocolate chips can also be used instead of milk or white chocolate to add a sophisticated tartness to the drizzle. For a nutty twist, sprinkle finely chopped toasted nuts over the caramel before drizzling chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
These slices are excellent on their own or served alongside a warm cup of apple cider or spiced tea. For festive occasions, consider placing them on a platter with other fall fruits and nuts to create a seasonal spread. You can also serve them as a fun dessert for kids parties or as a sweet addition to a holiday buffet.
Enjoy these caramel apple slices warm or chilled for a quick festive treat. They are perfect for snack tables and a simple, kid friendly dessert.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What apples work best for caramel apple slices?
Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal as their crisp texture and tartness balance the sweetness of caramel and chocolate.
- → How can I prevent apple slices from browning?
Soak the sliced apples in lemon or lime juice to slow oxidation and keep them fresh longer.
- → Can I use different types of chocolate for drizzling?
Yes, milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even dark chocolate can be melted and drizzled over the slices for different flavors.
- → What’s the best way to melt caramel bits evenly?
Microwave caramel bits in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and fully melted.
- → How do I keep the caramel from sliding off the apples?
Ensure the apple slices are completely dry before adding caramel to help it adhere better and set firmly.