Introduction

Chocolate covered caramel apple slices are a delightful treat that combines crisp apples with rich chocolate and smooth caramel. This recipe is perfect for a fun snack or festive dessert, offering a delicious balance of sweet and tart flavors in every bite.

A close-up view of a round chocolate-covered ice cream bar on a wooden stick, featuring a smooth dark brown chocolate base. It has layers of caramel-colored and white creamy drizzle crossing the top in thin, uneven lines. Scattered on top are whole and broken pecan nuts with a rough texture, adding a crunchy look. A small drip of caramel sauce is visible on the side of the bar. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 large Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, washed and dried well
10 ounces milk or dark chocolate melting wafers (such as Ghirardelli)
8 ounces soft caramel squares (1 cup), unwrapped (such as Kraft)
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 cup complementary variety chocolate melting wafers (optional but recommended)
Mini M&Ms, chopped nuts, and/or other assorted small toppings of your choosing

Instructions

Step 1: Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside to keep the dipped apples from sticking while they set.
Step 2: Slice each apple vertically into 4 or 5 slices about 1/2-inch thick (up to 3/4-inch if preferred). Use a melon baller and paring knife to remove the stem and carefully carve out the seeds without piercing the slices.
Step 3: Insert a 10 mm wide, food-grade wooden popsicle stick into the bottom center of each apple slice, pushing it halfway through. If needed, create a small slit with a knife to ease insertion.
Step 4: Melt the chocolate wafers using a double boiler or microwave according to package instructions. Thoroughly pat the apple slices dry before dipping.
Step 5: Dip each apple slice fully into the melted chocolate up to just past where the stick meets the fruit. Let excess chocolate drip off, then place slices in a single layer on the prepared pan. Refrigerate for 5–10 minutes until the chocolate is set.
Step 6: Combine the unwrapped caramel squares and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 7: If using, melt the complementary chocolate wafers using the same method. Let both the caramel and this extra chocolate cool until warm but still fluid to prevent melting the chocolate coating on the apples.
Step 8: Spoon the caramel sauce over the chocolate-dipped apple slices, then drizzle with the extra melted chocolate if desired. Immediately sprinkle with mini M&Ms, chopped nuts, or your chosen toppings. Refrigerate for an additional 10–15 minutes for the toppings and caramel to set.
Step 9: Serve within a few hours for best flavor and texture. Keep refrigerated until ready to enjoy.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast with the sweet chocolate and caramel.
If you prefer, swap the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter caramel sauce.
Experiment with different toppings such as coconut flakes, sea salt, or crushed pretzels for added texture.
Ensure apple slices are patted completely dry before dipping to help the chocolate adhere better.

Storage

Store the assembled chocolate covered caramel apple slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best quality, avoid making them too far ahead, as the texture of the apple and coatings can change overnight. Reheat slightly at room temperature if the chocolate becomes too firm before serving.

How to Serve

A chocolate-covered round ice cream bar with a smooth dark brown chocolate base, topped with thick soft swirls of light brown caramel and creamy white drizzle layered diagonally across the top. Scattered generously on top are large and small pieces of pecans, adding a crunchy texture with their rich brown color and natural ridges. The ice cream bar is held by a wooden stick, and the background is a white marbled texture. Some caramel drips slightly from the edges, enhancing its rich, indulgent look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, but tart varieties like Granny Smith or sweeter ones like Honeycrisp work best to balance the rich chocolate and caramel flavors.

How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking on the apple slices?

Make sure the apple slices are dry before dipping and allow the chocolate to set gently in the refrigerator. Avoid exposing the slices to sudden temperature changes that could cause cracking.