I remember the first time I made Caramel Apples for Alex and Sarah. It was one of those chilly October evenings after school, and they had just finished devouring their Halloween candy. I thought to myself, why not create a sweet treat that we could all enjoy together? I’ve since perfected this recipe, and now, it’s a beloved family tradition that signals the true start of fall in our household.
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For a variation, you might want to check out my gluten-free lemon crinkle cookies recipe, which is just as delightful.
Why you’ll love this recipe
These Caramel Apples are the perfect balance of sweet and salty, with a satisfying crunch from the salted peanuts. They are easy to make, require minimal cleanup, and are a hit with the kids. Plus, they're a fantastic way to involve the family in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 10 small granny smith apples, preferably organic without a waxy coating
- 10 wooden sticks
- 1 cup salted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups salted peanuts, crushed
Step-by-step instructions
- Line a large baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or greased wax paper, and set aside.
- Wash the apples thoroughly to remove the waxy coating using a clean, rough sponge and warm water. Dry thoroughly with a towel and set out on the prepared baking sheet.
- Carefully insert the sticks into the apples.
- Place the apples on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate them to help prevent the caramel from sliding off.
- Crush the peanuts using a food processor or by placing them in a bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
- Combine butter, corn syrup, condensed milk, brown sugar, and sea salt in a heavy-bottomed 4-quart saucepan.
- Cook over medium-low heat until the caramel reaches 235-240 degrees F, stirring constantly. This takes about 20-25 minutes.
- Once the caramel thickens and becomes slightly darker, remove from heat, add vanilla, and stir vigorously.
Recipe tips & variations
For a fun twist, you can add some crushed pretzels or mini chocolate chips along with the peanuts. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a bit of sea salt over the top after dipping the apples in caramel.
Storage & reheating
Store these Caramel Apples in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and sticky. Just pop them in an airtight container and enjoy within a few days. If you prefer them a bit softer, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before eating.
FAQs
How do you keep the caramel from sliding off the apples?
Make sure to refrigerate the apples before dipping. The cold surface helps the caramel stick better.
What kind of apples work best for homemade caramel apples?
Granny Smith apples are ideal as their tartness balances the sweet caramel, but feel free to use your favorite variety!
Can I make caramel apples ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! Prepare them the day before, and keep them refrigerated until serving time.
How do you store caramel apples to keep them fresh and sticky?
Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. This will keep them fresh for up to three days.
Recipes you may like
- Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies
- Creamy Mango Banana Smoothie For A Fresh Morning Boost
- Pineapple Green Smoothie
Every fall, my family looks forward to the moment when the first Caramel Apple is made. It's a tradition that brings us together, creating memories we'll cherish for years to come. Try it, and let me know how your family enjoys them!
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Caramel Apples
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious caramel apples with salted peanuts, perfect for fall.
Ingredients
- 10 small granny smith apples, preferably organic without a waxy coating
- 10 wooden sticks
- 1 cup salted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups salted peanuts, crushed
Instructions
- Line a large baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or greased wax paper, and set aside.
- Wash the apples thoroughly to remove the waxy coating using a clean, rough sponge and warm water. Dry thoroughly with a towel and set out on the prepared baking sheet.
- Carefully insert the sticks into the apples.
- Place the apples on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate them to help prevent the caramel from sliding off.
- Crush the peanuts using a food processor or by placing them in a bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
- Combine butter, corn syrup, condensed milk, brown sugar, and sea salt in a heavy-bottomed 4-quart saucepan.
- Cook over medium-low heat until the caramel reaches 235-240 degrees F, stirring constantly. This takes about 20-25 minutes.
- Once the caramel thickens and becomes slightly darker, remove from heat, add vanilla, and stir vigorously.
Notes
- For a fun twist, you can add some crushed pretzels or mini chocolate chips along with the peanuts.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a bit of sea salt over the top after dipping the apples in caramel.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apple
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
