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caramel apples with crushed oreos, nuts, and crushed candy bars

Homemade Caramel Apples

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Homemade caramel apples are an easy, fun, and delicious fall treat! For the most success, read full recipe post, tips, and FAQs before starting.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Set Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 6 caramel apples
Calories 396
Author Annalise

Ingredients

  • 1 cup + 1 tablespoon heavy cream (240 grams)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28 grams)
  • ¼ light corn syrup (85 ml)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 6 small apples , washed thoroughly
  • 6 wooden skewers or craft sticks

Toppings (optional)

  • Chopped nuts
  • Chopped candy bars
  • Crushed Oreos
  • Mini M&Ms
  • Toasted coconut

Instructions

  • Insert craft sticks into the tops of the apples and keep them nearby. Lay out a sheet of parchment/wax paper out. Have toppings (if using) ready to go.
  • In a heavy bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup of cream, sugar, butter and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth and mixture begins to boil.
  • Insert a candy thermometer and let mixture cook to 248°F or firm-ball stage, while continuing to stir occasionally. Mixture will caramelize and turn golden brown as it cooks. Watch it carefully to make sure it doesn't burn.
  • As soon as it reaches 248°F, remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the 1 tablespoon cream, salt, and vanilla extract. Mixture will bubble violently at first. Stir until smooth.
  • Working quickly, immediately begin dipping the apples, letting the excess caramel drip back into the pan. Roll the apples in the toppings, if using. Set the dipped apples on the parchment or wax paper and let sit for 30-60 minutes.
  • The caramel apples will keep stored at room temperature for 2 days, but are best the day they are made.

Nutrition

Calories: 396kcal | Carbohydrates: 60g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 64mg | Sodium: 212mg | Potassium: 224mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 52g | Vitamin A: 798IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 1mg