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This recipe for caramel, chocolate and candy apples is a fun and festive treat that’s perfect for celebrations or a cozy day at home. The combination of smooth caramel, rich dark chocolate and colorful toppings makes each apple a delightful bite full of textures and flavors.
I first made these on a crisp fall afternoon, and they quickly became a favorite for both the kids and grownups in the family.
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil cooking spray: to keep the apples from sticking to the parchment paper and to help with cleanup
- Apples: Six small apples, washed, dried and with stems removed I like using crisp varieties like Granny Smith for a tart contrast to the sweet coating
- Soft caramel candies: Two bags unwrapped Kraft Classic Caramels melt smoothly and provide that perfect buttery caramel flavor
- Orange juice: Quarter cup pulpfree orange juice to thin the caramel making it easy to dip and coat the apples evenly
- Dark chocolate: One fourozunce bar of 53 percent cocoa dark chocolate chopped into halfinch pieces this adds a deep chocolate richness and pairs beautifully with the caramel
- Assorted toppings: Assorted small candies, chopped nuts and sprinkles to add color and texture choose your favorites or what looks festive for the occasion
Instructions
- Spear the Apples:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray lightly with vegetable oil cooking spray. Insert craft sticks halfway into the stem ends of each apple so they are sturdy and easy to handle.
- Melt the Caramel:
- Place the caramel candies and orange juice in a medium heavy saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and cook for about 10 minutes until the candies fully melt and the mixture is smooth. Once melted, remove from heat and let cool for two minutes so it thickens slightly while still remaining workable.
- Dip the Apples:
- Holding the stick, dip each apple completely into the caramel ensuring it is evenly coated. Let any excess drip off before placing the apple on your prepared baking sheet. Allow the caramel to firm up by resting the apples for about two hours at room temperature.
- Prepare the Chocolate:
- Put the chopped dark chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl. Place this bowl over a pan of barely simmering water, ensuring the bottom does not touch the water. Stir continuously until the chocolate is melted and silky smooth.
- Drizzle and Decorate:
- Using a fork or spoon, drizzle the melted chocolate over the set caramel coating. Immediately sprinkle with your chosen candies, chopped nuts or sprinkles before the chocolate hardens. Return the apples to the parchmentlined sheet and let them sit at room temperature until the chocolate sets, roughly three to four hours.
My favorite ingredient here is the dark chocolate. It balances the sweetness of the caramel with its slightly bitter undertones and gives each bite a luxurious finish. One year, my daughter insisted on swirling the chocolate herself and we ended up with the most beautiful marbled apples that everyone raved about.
Storage Tips
Once fully set, store these apples in a cool place but not the refrigerator to avoid moisture making the caramel sticky. If needed, wrap each apple individually in wax paper or plastic wrap and place in an airtight container. They keep well for up to five days.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer, substitute the dark chocolate with milk or white chocolate for a sweeter version. You can also use apple juice instead of orange juice but the slight citrus tang helps brighten the caramel’s flavor. Feel free to swap toppings for crushed pretzels or toasted coconut for a new twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these apples as a festive treat at parties alongside other fall favorites like spiced cider or pumpkin cookies. They also make fun edible gifts when wrapped in cellophane with a ribbon.
These caramel chocolate and candy apples are a festive easy showstopper that can be customized for any occasion. Enjoy making them with family and sharing the sweetness.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of apples work best?
Small, firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji hold up well and balance the sweetness with a slight tartness.
- → How do I prevent caramel from sticking?
Spraying the baking sheet and wooden sticks with vegetable oil helps the caramel-coated apples release easily once set.
- → Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate can be substituted for a sweeter coating, but dark chocolate provides a nice contrast to the caramel.
- → How long should the apples cool before serving?
Allow at least 3-4 hours at room temperature for the chocolate to harden and the caramel to firm up properly.
- → Are there alternative toppings to use?
Chopped nuts, sprinkles, and small candies all add texture and flavor—feel free to mix and match based on preference.