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How to Make Gourmet Caramel Apples

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Gourmet caramel apples are a delicious, customizable treat, perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet indulgence. This recipe covers how to create glossy caramel, dip apples, and decorate them to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Caramel:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
  • 2 cups packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 6–8 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)

For Decorating (Optional):

  • 1 cup semi-sweet or white chocolate chips (melted)
  • Assorted toppings (chopped nuts, crushed cookies, mini M&Ms, sprinkles, sea salt, etc.)

Tools Needed:

  • Wooden sticks or skewers
  • Candy thermometer
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Instructions

Prepare the Apples:

  1. Wash and Dry:
    • Wash the apples thoroughly to remove any wax coating. Dry completely to ensure the caramel adheres.
  2. Insert Sticks:
    • Push a wooden stick or skewer into the stem end of each apple. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate while preparing the caramel.

Make the Caramel:

  1. Melt Butter and Sugar:
    • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk.
  2. Cook the Caramel:
    • Attach a candy thermometer to the pan. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage). This takes about 10-15 minutes.
  3. Add Vanilla:
    • Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the caramel cool slightly for about 3-5 minutes.

Dip the Apples:

  1. Coat the Apples:
    • Hold an apple by the stick and dip it into the caramel, swirling to coat evenly. Let the excess drip off, then scrape the bottom of the apple against the edge of the pan to avoid pooling.
  2. Set the Apples:
    • Place the dipped apple on the parchment paper. Repeat with the remaining apples. Let the caramel set for 30 minutes.

Decorate the Apples:

  1. Add Toppings (Optional):
    • While the caramel is still slightly tacky, roll the apples in your desired toppings (nuts, sprinkles, etc.). For a chocolate drizzle, melt chocolate chips in the microwave and drizzle over the apples using a spoon or piping bag.

Chill and Serve:

  1. Chill the Apples:
    • Refrigerate the apples for about 15 minutes to fully set.
  2. Serve or Store:
  • Wrap each apple in cellophane for gifting or store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Caramel Consistency: If the caramel hardens too quickly, reheat gently over low heat.
  • Smooth Coating: Refrigerating the apples beforehand helps the caramel stick better.
  • Toppings: Press toppings firmly onto the caramel immediately after dipping.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/how-to-make-gourmet-caramel-apples/