Chocolate Covered Caramel Apple Slices Recipe
Delight in these Chocolate Covered Caramel Apple Slices, a perfect blend of crisp apple slices dipped in rich chocolate, topped with smooth caramel and garnished with colorful mini M&Ms or chopped nuts. This easy-to-make treat combines fresh fruit with indulgent toppings for a fun and festive dessert.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 apple slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 3 large Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, washed and dried well
Chocolate Coating
- 10 ounces milk or dark chocolate melting wafers (e.g., Ghirardelli)
Caramel Topping
- 8 ounces soft caramel squares (1 cup), unwrapped (e.g., Kraft)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Optional Drizzle and Toppings
- 1 cup complementary variety chocolate melting wafers (optional)
- Mini M&Ms, chopped nuts, and/or assorted small toppings of your choice
Instructions
- Prepare the Work Surface: Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or silicone baking mat and set aside to ensure dipped apples won’t stick while setting.
- Slice the Apples: Cut 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 stems and carefully carve out seeds without piercing through the apple slice.
- Insert Popsicle Sticks: Place 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 to ease insertion.
- Melt the Chocolate: Melt the milk or dark chocolate wafers using a double boiler or microwave according to package instructions. Pat apple slices dry before dipping.
- Dip the Apples: Fully dip each apple slice into melted chocolate up to just past where the stick meets the fruit. Let excess drip off, then place slices in a single layer on the sheet pan. Refrigerate 5–10 minutes until chocolate sets.
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: Combine unwrapped caramel squares and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and melted. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Melt Extra Chocolate (Optional): If using, melt complementary chocolate wafers in the same way and allow both caramel and extra chocolate to cool until warm but fluid to avoid melting the chocolate coating on apples.
- Drizzle and Top: Spoon caramel over chocolate-dipped apple slices. Drizzle with extra melted chocolate if using. Immediately sprinkle with mini M&Ms, chopped nuts, or other toppings. Refrigerate an additional 10–15 minutes to set toppings and caramel.
- Serve and Store: Serve within a few hours for best flavor and texture. Keep refrigerated until ready to enjoy. Avoid preparing the night before assembly to maintain quality.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and flavor.
- Ensure apple slices are dried thoroughly before dipping to help chocolate adhere better.
- Use food-grade wooden popsicle sticks for easy handling.
- Caramel can be warmed gently without burning by microwaving in short bursts and stirring frequently.
- For a gluten-free version, verify that toppings and chocolates are gluten-free certified.
- Consume within the same day for optimal freshness and texture; prolonged refrigeration after assembly can cause sogginess.
- Customize toppings based on preference: nuts, sprinkles, sea salt, or crushed candy canes are great alternatives.
Keywords: chocolate covered apples, caramel apple slices, chocolate caramel apple, easy apple dessert, holiday treats, Halloween snacks, fall dessert
