Chocolate-Covered Caramel Apples Recipe

What you need:

• 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 1 bag of soft caramel candies (or homemade caramel if you’re feeling fancy)
• 2 cups of melting chocolate (milk, dark, or white chocolate)
• Wooden sticks (popsicle sticks or sturdy skewers)
• Optional toppings: crushed nuts, sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, sea salt

What to do:

1. Before you get started, wash and dry the apples thoroughly.

Apples are usually coated in a wax that can prevent the caramel from sticking, so it’s a good idea to give them a quick rinse with hot water or scrub them with a bit of vinegar. Once dry, insert the wooden sticks into the top of each apple, making sure they’re secure.

2. Place the unwrapped caramel candies in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water or cream (about 2 tablespoons).

Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted. If you’re using homemade caramel, just heat it gently until it’s warm enough for dipping.

3. Now comes the fun part! Hold the apples by the stick and dip each one into the melted caramel, twirling it to coat the apple evenly.

Let any excess caramel drip off before placing the apple on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If you want, you can sprinkle on some toppings while the caramel is still sticky. Let the apples sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the caramel to set.

4. While your caramel-covered apples are setting, melt the chocolate. You can use the microwave again, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth, or use a double boiler to gently melt the chocolate without burning it.

5. Once the caramel is set, dip each apple into the melted chocolate.

You can fully cover the apple or just dip the bottom half—whatever looks best to you! While the chocolate is still wet, add more toppings if desired. Crushed nuts, sprinkles, or a drizzle of white chocolate all make beautiful finishing touches.

6. Place the finished apples back on the parchment paper and let them set for about 30 minutes at room temperature, or pop them in the fridge for a quicker setting time. Once they’re firm, they’re ready to enjoy!