Celebrate the flavors of fall with these Homemade Caramel Apples, featuring a rich, buttery caramel that perfectly complements the tartness of Granny Smith apples. This delightful treat is quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes, and is an excellent choice for festive gatherings or a cozy night in. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these caramel apples promise a fun and tasty experience.
Ingredients
- Granny Smith Apples: 8-10 medium
- Brown Sugar: 15 ounces
- Corn Syrup: 8 ounces
- Unsalted Butter: 2.5 ounces
- Heavy Cream: 10 ounces
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tablespoon
Directions
- Apple Prep (Day 1): Wash apples and submerge in almost boiling water for 1 minute to remove wax. Dry thoroughly, remove stems, insert sticks, and refrigerate on a lined sheet overnight.
- Make Caramel (Day 2): In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, cream, salt, and butter. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring until butter melts. Then, let cook without stirring, using a pastry brush to wash down the sides with water.
- Dip Apples: Once caramel reaches 240-245°F (firm ball stage), remove from heat, add vanilla, and let cool slightly to 190-200°F. Dip apples, let excess caramel drip off, and cool on a silicone mat.
Tips
- Apple Choice: Use Granny Smith apples for a nice balance of tart and sweet.
- Caramel Consistency: Ensure caramel reaches the correct temperature to prevent it from sliding off the apples.
- Toppings: If desired, immediately roll dipped apples in toppings like nuts or crushed candies for extra flavor!
FAQs
- Q: Can I use a different type of apple?
A: Yes, but Granny Smith apples are recommended for their firmness and tart flavor, which balances the sweet caramel. - Q: What can I do if my caramel is too runny?
A: Make sure the caramel reaches the firm ball stage (240-245°F). If it’s still runny, cook a little longer while monitoring the temperature.
Prep Time
- 10 minutes ⏱
Cook Time
- 20 minutes 🔥
Total Time
- 30 minutes ⏳
Yield
- 8-10 caramel apples 🍏
Category
- Desserts
Method
- Cooking
Cuisine
- American
Diet
- Vegetarian
Conclusion
Homemade Caramel Apples offer a perfect blend of sweet, buttery caramel and crisp, tart apples. They are not only a joy to make but also a hit at any party or special event. Dive into the art of caramel apple making and treat your taste buds to a classic favorite that never goes out of style. Whether you’re making them for a party or as a special treat, these caramel apples are sure to be a delightful addition to any occasion.
