Caramel Apple Slices with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe

Introduction

Caramel Apple Slices are a delightful twist on the classic treat, perfect for parties or a sweet snack. Crisp apple slices are dipped in rich homemade caramel and optionally drizzled with chocolate and nuts for an irresistible combination of flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup water
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter
• 6 oz. dark chocolate chips (optional)
• 1 tablespoon oil (optional)
• 6 medium apples, washed and sliced
• ½ cup chopped nuts of choice (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium pot over high heat, combine the granulated sugar, water, and kosher salt. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the sugar melts and starts to turn a light caramel color.
2. Step 2: Remove the pot from heat and carefully add the heavy cream (the mixture will bubble up). Return to low heat and stir constantly until the caramel sauce is smooth.
3. Step 3: Turn off the heat and stir in the cold unsalted butter until fully incorporated. Transfer the caramel to a tall container to cool and thicken. The sauce will develop a golden brown color as it cools.
4. Step 4: For the chocolate drizzle, place dark chocolate chips and oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds, stir, and repeat heating and stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Step 5: While the caramel cools, wash and slice the apples lengthwise or into individual slices. Toss the slices with lemon juice to prevent browning, then pat dry with paper towels.
6. Step 6: Optionally, place apple slices on sticks. Dip each slice slowly into the caramel, letting excess drip off, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the caramel apples if using, and drizzle melted chocolate on top for extra flavor and decoration.
8. Step 8: Enjoy the caramel apple slices immediately, or refrigerate them uncovered until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance to the sweetness of the caramel.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt to the caramel for extra depth of flavor.
• Try alternative toppings like crushed pretzels, sprinkles, or toasted coconut instead of nuts.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and a dairy-free butter alternative.

Storage

Store caramel apple slices in the refrigerator uncovered to keep the caramel from becoming soggy. They are best eaten within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. To serve, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften the caramel slightly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made caramel sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce can be used for convenience, but homemade caramel sauce offers a richer, fresher flavor that really enhances the apples.

How do I prevent the apple slices from browning?

Toss the apple slices in lemon juice immediately after cutting to slow down oxidation and keep them looking fresh and bright.

Caramel Apple Slices with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe

Print Recipe

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Delight in these Caramel Apple Slices, a sweet and tangy treat featuring crisp apple slices dipped in rich homemade caramel sauce, optionally drizzled with melted dark chocolate and sprinkled with chopped nuts for extra crunch. Perfect for a festive snack or dessert that balances fresh fruit with luscious caramel and chocolate flavors.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel Sauce

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup water
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter

Melted Chocolate (Optional)

• 6 oz. dark chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon oil

Apple Slices

• 6 medium apples, washed and sliced
• ½ cup chopped nuts of choice (optional)
• Lemon juice (amount not specified, approximately 1 tablespoon recommended for tossing apples to prevent browning)

Instructions

1. Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium pot, combine granulated sugar, water, and kosher salt over high heat. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the sugar melts and starts to develop a light caramel color. Remove from heat, then carefully add heavy cream (the mixture will bubble up). Return to low heat and stir constantly until the caramel sauce is smooth. Turn off the heat, add cold unsalted butter, and stir until fully incorporated. Transfer the sauce to a tall measuring cup or container. The caramel will thicken and turn a golden brown as it cools.
2. Melt the Chocolate (Optional): In a microwave-safe bowl, combine dark chocolate chips and oil. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir, then continue microwaving in short intervals, stirring each time, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
3. Prepare the Apple Slices: While the caramel cools, wash the apples and slice them lengthwise or into individual slices. Toss the apple slices in lemon juice to prevent browning. Pat the slices dry on paper towels before dipping.
4. Dip Apples in Caramel: If using, place apple slices on sticks. Slowly dip each apple slice into the caramel, allowing excess to drip off. Place dipped slices on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
5. Add Toppings and Chocolate Drizzle: After dipping all apple slices, sprinkle chopped nuts over them if desired. Using a fork, drizzle the melted chocolate over the slices to add a rich finishing touch.
6. Serve or Store: Enjoy the caramel apple slices immediately, or refrigerate uncovered until ready to serve for a slightly firmer texture.

Notes

• Lemon juice is used to prevent apple slices from browning and helps maintain freshness.
• Work carefully with hot caramel to avoid burns.
• Choosing firm apples such as Granny Smith or Fuji will provide the best crisp texture.
• For variations, try using white chocolate or adding sea salt to the caramel for a salted caramel flavor.
• If not using sticks, handle apple slices gently to avoid breaking the caramel coating.
• Store caramel apple slices in the refrigerator uncovered to keep the caramel from becoming soggy.

Keywords: caramel apples, caramel apple slices, homemade caramel sauce, apple dessert, fall recipes, chocolate drizzle, nut topping