Deserts

Chocolate Covered Caramel Apples

Name: Chocolate Covered Caramel Apples
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 8 medium apples; 8 wooden sticks; 2 tbsp heavy cream; 12 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate; 1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening; Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds; Mini chocolate chips; Sprinkles; Sea salt flakes; Crushed cookies or pretzels; White chocolate drizzle

Servings: 8 Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

Chocolate Covered Caramel Apples are a festive treat that perfectly combine crisp, tart apples with gooey caramel and a rich chocolate coating. This dessert is often associated with fall fairs, Halloween, or holiday celebrations, but they’re delicious any time of year. With a fun balance of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors, plus endless decoration options (nuts, sprinkles, or drizzle), these caramel apples are as beautiful as they are indulgent.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together childhood nostalgia and gourmet indulgence in one beautiful treat. There’s something magical about biting into the crisp snap of a fresh apple, followed by the chewy caramel and smooth chocolate coating. It’s the kind of dessert that feels fun and festive, yet luxurious at the same time.

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility — every batch can be different. Sometimes I roll them in crushed nuts for crunch, other times I go with sprinkles for a playful touch, or a drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant finish. They’re not just delicious; they’re a canvas for creativity.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it’s simple yet impressive. Using just a few ingredients, you create a gourmet-quality dessert that feels special. The combination of crisp apple + buttery caramel + rich chocolate is unbeatable. Plus, they’re portable, shareable, and perfect for holidays, bake sales, and celebrations.

Preparation & Cooking Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking/Melting Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 caramel apples
Calories: ~380 per apple (varies by toppings)

Cuisine & Course

Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert / Snack / Party Treat

Ingredients

For the Apples:

8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best)
8 wooden sticks (popsicle sticks or craft sticks)

For the Caramel Coating:

1 (14 oz) bag soft caramel candies (or 2 cups homemade caramel)
2 tbsp heavy cream

For the Chocolate Coating:

12 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate (chopped or chips)
1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smooth melting)

Optional Toppings:

Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds
Mini chocolate chips
Sprinkles
Sea salt flakes
Crushed cookies or pretzels
White chocolate drizzle

Simple Directions

Wash and dry apples thoroughly (remove wax coating).
Insert sticks into apples.
Melt caramel with cream until smooth. Dip apples, let excess drip off, and chill.
Melt chocolate until smooth. Dip caramel-coated apples, decorate with toppings, and let set.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Wash apples in hot water to remove wax and dry completely.
Insert wooden sticks firmly into the center of each apple.
Place apples on a parchment-lined tray.

Step 2: Melt the Caramel

In a saucepan, melt caramel candies with cream over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
Dip each apple into the caramel, twirling to coat evenly.
Let excess drip off, then place on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set.

Step 3: Coat with Chocolate

Melt chocolate (with coconut oil if using) in a double boiler or microwave (30-second intervals, stirring in between).
Dip each caramel apple into melted chocolate. Allow excess to drip off.

Step 4: Add Toppings

While chocolate is still wet, roll apples in nuts, sprinkles, or toppings of choice.
Place back on parchment paper. Let set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm.

How to Serve

Serve whole on sticks as a fun handheld treat.
For easier eating, slice into wedges before serving.
Wrap individually in cellophane bags for gifts or party favors.

Additional Recipe Tips

Make sure apples are completely dry before dipping; moisture prevents caramel/chocolate from sticking.
Chill caramel layer before dipping in chocolate for best results.
If caramel slides off, your apples may still have wax; scrub again with hot water.

Variations

White Chocolate Apples – Use white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier finish.
Salted Caramel Apples – Sprinkle flaky sea salt before chocolate sets.
Peanut Butter Caramel Apples – Mix 2 tbsp peanut butter into melted caramel for extra flavor.
Halloween Style – Use orange candy melts and black sprinkles.

Freezing & Storage

Storage: Keep in the refrigerator, wrapped individually, for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as apples lose their texture when thawed.

Special Equipment Needed

Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Saucepan for melting caramel
Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
Wooden sticks

Conclusion

Chocolate Covered Caramel Apples are the ultimate treat that combine crunch, sweetness, and richness in every bite. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser at parties, holidays, and family gatherings. Whether decorated simply or lavishly, they’re guaranteed to make your dessert table unforgettable.

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