Description
This Simple Homemade Caramel Apples recipe combines crisp, fresh apples with a rich, creamy homemade caramel. Perfect for a festive treat or a sweet snack, these caramel apples are coated in a luscious caramel made from sugar, butter, and cream, finished with a hint of sea salt and vanilla for a balanced, irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Apples
- 6 medium Apples (Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, washed and dried)
Caramel
- 2 cups Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup Water
- 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste
- 0.5 teaspoon Sea Salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Set up your workspace by gathering all ingredients and equipment. Insert wooden sticks firmly into the top center of each apple to serve as handles for dipping.
- Combine Sugar and Water: In a medium saucepan, mix granulated sugar and water. Stir gently just to dissolve sugar, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil without stirring to ensure a clear syrup.
- Cook to Soft Ball Stage: Using a candy thermometer, monitor the syrup’s temperature closely. Let it boil for about 10-15 minutes until it reaches 240°F (soft ball stage), which is crucial for proper caramelization.
- Add Butter: Remove the pan from heat briefly and add the unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the butter is fully melted and incorporated into the syrup, creating a smooth base.
- Incorporate Heavy Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Be careful as the mixture will bubble vigorously. Continue stirring until the caramel is uniform and creamy.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla bean paste and sea salt thoroughly to enhance the caramel’s depth of flavor. Return to low heat and simmer gently for 2-3 more minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the caramel from heat and allow it to cool for a few minutes so it thickens slightly, perfect for coating the apples.
- Dip Apples: Holding the sticks, dip each apple into the warm caramel, swirling to coat evenly. Let excess caramel drip off before placing the apples on a lined baking sheet to set.
- Set the Caramel: Repeat the dipping process for all apples. Optionally, add toppings like nuts or sprinkles before setting. Refrigerate the caramel apples for at least 30 minutes to allow the caramel to harden.
- Serve or Store: Once set, serve fresh or store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for up to 3 days for best freshness.
Notes
- Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor contrast with the caramel.
- Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control to avoid burnt or undercooked caramel.
- Be cautious when adding heavy cream as the hot caramel will bubble vigorously.
- Caramel apples are best enjoyed within a few days to maintain freshness and crispness of the apple.
- Optional toppings such as chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or colorful sprinkles can be added immediately after dipping for extra texture and flavor.
