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Foolproof Homemade Caramel Apples: The Best Chewy, No-Slide Recipe

A bright green apple covered in thick, dripping caramel and chopped nuts, ready to eat as a caramel apple.
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Create perfect homemade caramel apples with this easy recipe. You get a rich, chewy caramel coating that sticks every time, making these ideal for fall parties and Halloween treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium tart apples (like Granny Smith)
  • 12 wooden or parchment-lined lollipop sticks
  • 1 (14-ounce) bag soft caramel candies, unwrapped
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • Optional Toppings: 1 cup chopped nuts, 1 cup mini chocolate chips, 1/2 cup white chocolate, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apples: Wash the apples well. Remove the stems and insert the sticks firmly into the top center of each apple.
  2. Dry the apples completely: This step is crucial for the caramel to stick. Wipe each apple thoroughly with a paper towel to remove all moisture and any waxy residue. You can briefly place them in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to chill, which also helps the caramel adhere.
  3. Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the unwrapped caramel candies, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly until the caramel is completely melted and smooth. Do not let the mixture boil rapidly.
  4. Cook the caramel: Continue to cook the mixture gently, stirring often, until it reaches 245 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. This temperature ensures a chewy, no-slide coating. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes after melting.
  5. Cool the caramel slightly: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the caramel cool for 5 minutes. This prevents the caramel from being too runny when dipping.
  6. Dip the apples: Hold an apple by the stick and tilt the saucepan slightly. Dip the apple into the caramel, rotating it to coat evenly. Lift the apple out and allow excess caramel to drip back into the pan.
  7. Add toppings (optional): Immediately after dipping, roll the caramel-coated apple in your chosen toppings, or drizzle with melted chocolate.
  8. Set the apples: Place the finished caramel apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Let them set at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or until the caramel is firm.

Notes

  • For the chewiest caramel, use a candy thermometer and hit the 245°F mark.
  • If you skip drying the apples, the caramel will slide off. Wipe them down until they feel completely dry.
  • For an easy serving method at parties, you can make caramel apple slices and serve them with toothpicks for dipping.
  • To make chocolate-dipped caramel apples, wait until the caramel is fully set before dipping them in melted chocolate.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://eatableempress.com/caramel-apples-foolproof-chewy-no-slide-recipe/