Easy Sheet Pan Caramel Apples for a Crowd Recipe

Introduction

This easy sheet pan caramel apples recipe is perfect for serving a crowd without the fuss of individual treats. Crisp apple slices are coated in a rich, homemade caramel and topped with your favorite crunchy or sweet toppings. It’s a simple, fun dessert that’s ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

• 4–5 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp water
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Topping ideas: chopped peanuts or pecans, mini chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, shredded coconut, toffee bits, sprinkles, sea salt flakes

Instructions

1. Step 1: Core and slice the apples into thin wedges. Toss them with lemon juice and water to prevent browning.
2. Step 2: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the apple slices in a single layer, close but not overlapping.
3. Step 3: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and condensed milk. Stir constantly until bubbling.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to low and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
6. Step 6: Quickly pour the caramel evenly over the apples using a spoon or measuring cup, working fast as it thickens quickly.
7. Step 7: Immediately sprinkle your desired toppings over the warm sticky caramel.
8. Step 8: Let the sheet cool for about 30 minutes until set. Then slice into squares or bars and serve with napkins or forks.

Tips & Variations

• Don’t skip tossing the apples with lemon juice; it keeps them crisp and prevents browning under the caramel.
• Use a mix of toppings for a colorful and flavorful finish—try sea salt flakes with chocolate chips for a sweet-salty combo.
• If you want thicker caramel, cook it a minute or two longer but watch carefully to avoid burning.
• Use a variety of apple types for different textures and flavors to suit your preference.

Storage

Store leftover caramel apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Reheating is not recommended as the caramel may become too soft or sticky.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples work best because they hold their shape and have a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors. Feel free to experiment with your favorite varieties.

What if the caramel hardens before I pour it?

If the caramel starts to thicken too much, gently warm it over low heat while stirring to soften it before pouring over the apples. Work quickly to get an even coating.

Easy Sheet Pan Caramel Apples for a Crowd Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 116 reviews

These Easy Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are a perfect crowd-pleaser combining crisp apple slices with rich, homemade caramel, all baked on a sheet pan for effortless preparation. Finished with your choice of toppings, they make a delightful sweet treat that’s perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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For the Apples:

• 4–5 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp water

For the Caramel:

• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Topping Ideas:

• Chopped peanuts or pecans
• Mini chocolate chips
• Crushed pretzels
• Shredded coconut
• Toffee bits
• Sprinkles
• Sea salt flakes

Instructions

1. Prep the Apples: Core and slice the apples into thin wedges. Toss them with lemon juice and water to prevent browning and maintain crispness.
2. Arrange on Sheet Pan: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay out the apple slices in a single layer, close together but not overlapping, to ensure even caramel coverage.
3. Make the Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, unsalted butter, light corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the mixture starts to bubble, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the caramel thickens.
4. Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt to enhance the caramel’s flavor.
5. Drizzle Over Apples: Quickly pour the warm caramel evenly over the apple slices using a spoon or measuring cup. Work efficiently as the caramel thickens rapidly.
6. Add Toppings: Immediately sprinkle your choice of toppings such as nuts, chocolate chips, or sprinkles while the caramel is still warm and sticky, so they adhere properly.
7. Cool and Slice: Allow the sheet pan to cool for about 30 minutes until the caramel sets. Then slice into squares or bars for easy serving, accompanied by napkins or forks for a mess-free experience.

Notes

• Don’t skip the lemon juice on the apples; it keeps them crisp and prevents browning during preparation.
• Be quick with adding toppings while the caramel is warm and sticky to ensure they adhere well; once set, nothing will stick.
• Use parchment paper on the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture and flavor contrast.

Keywords: caramel apples, easy dessert, sheet pan dessert, fall recipes, party snacks, caramel apple bars