Caramel Candy Apple Slices (Printable Version)

Crisp apple slices coated in caramel and topped with crunchy peanuts for a sweet, easy treat.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Apples

01 - 2 large crisp apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), washed and dried

→ Caramel

02 - 1 cup soft caramels (about 24 pieces), unwrapped
03 - 2 tablespoons heavy cream

→ Toppings

04 - 1/2 cup roasted salted peanuts, finely crushed
05 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
06 - 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (optional)

→ Additional

07 - 12 wooden popsicle sticks or lollipop sticks
08 - Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with nonstick spray.
02 - Cut each apple into 6 thick slices, removing the core and seeds from each slice. Pat slices dry with paper towels.
03 - Insert a popsicle stick into the bottom of each apple slice, pushing approximately halfway through.
04 - In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the caramels with heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat.
05 - Dip each apple slice into the warm caramel, allowing excess to drip off. Use a spoon to help cover the sides if needed.
06 - Immediately sprinkle or dip the caramel-coated apple slices in crushed peanuts. Add chocolate chips or sea salt if desired.
07 - Place coated slices on the prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to set.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • It's one of those treats that feels indulgent but comes together faster than you'd think, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
  • The contrast between tart apple, sweet caramel, and salty crunchy peanuts is genuinely addictive in a way that surprises people every single time.
  • You get to use wooden sticks, which somehow makes even adults feel like they're at a fair, even if you're just standing at your kitchen counter.
02 -
  • If your caramel gets too thick while you're working, just set the pan back over low heat for a few seconds to loosen it up; cold caramel won't coat smoothly and will break instead of cling.
  • Don't skip the drying step with paper towels—wet apples are the most common reason caramel doesn't stick properly, and it's such an easy fix.
03 -
  • If you're making these ahead for an event, you can prep everything except the final assembly and keep the caramel in a small container in the fridge; just gently reheat it when you're ready to dip.
  • Double-dipping—once in caramel, let it set for a minute, then dip again—creates a thicker, more impressive-looking coat that holds up better to handling.
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