Caramel Apple Slices (no sliding caramel!)

Caramel Apple Slices with different toppings on parchment paper.

5 from 4 votes

Caramel Apple Slices (no sliding caramel!)

The first time I made Caramel Apple Slices, I quickly learned that they aren't as fuss-free as they sound. That is, unless you have the right method! We made version after version in our kitchen until we found the trick to preventing the caramel from weeping or sliding off (and it involves caramel's best friend, chocolate).

Prep Time25

Decorating Time15

Total Time40

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Servings: slices

Calories: 65kcal

Author: Misty

Ingredients

4 apples preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith
11 oz (about 2 cups) chocolate wafers
11 oz caramel squares or bits
4 tablespoon heavy cream

Toppings (optional)

White chocolate drizzle (see notes for recipe)
Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, coconut, candy bars, marshmallows, sprinkles, and more! (see the post for a full list of topping ideas)

Instructions

Chocolate Coating

Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. Wash apples under very hot water briefly, then scrub with paper towel to remove the waxy coating. Dry well.
4 apples
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate wafers for 1 minute, then stir well. Continue heating in 30-second increments, stirring in between until completely smooth.
11 oz (about 2 cups) chocolate wafers
Cut apples into ½ inch slices, about 12 slices per apple.
Pat one apple slice dry with paper towels, then dip ¾ high in the melted chocolate. Allow excess to drip off, then wipe one side clean on the edge of the bowl (see photo in post). Lay the slice clean side down on the prepared baking sheet. Continue dipping remaining apples, drying each slice before dipping. Refrigerate apples until chocolate is set, about 10 minutes.

Prep Toppings

Meanwhile prepare your toppings. Now is a good time to make the white chocolate drizzle (see notes for recipe). You can also chop nuts, crush Oreos, etc.
White chocolate drizzle, Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, coconut, candy bars, marshmallows, sprinkles, and more!

Caramel Topping

Once the apples are set, microwave half the caramels (5.5 oz) and 2 tablespoon heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 30 seconds. Stir, then continue microwaving at half-power in 15 second intervals, stirring in between until the caramel is completely smooth.
5.5 oz caramel squares or bits, 2 tbsp heavy cream
Working with half of the apples, drizzle the caramel generously over the chocolate covered parts of the apples (caramel directly on the apple will weep or slide off). Immediately drizzle with white chocolate (if using) and add toppings before the caramel sets. Set aside or refrigerate to set.
Melt the second half of the caramel and remaining 2 tablespoon of heavy cream like before. Drizzle remaining apple slices and add toppings. Set aside or refrigerate to set.
5.5 oz caramel squares or bits, 2 tbsp heavy cream
These are best served fresh. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 hours or at room temperature for 1-2 hours. The longer they sit, the more chance they will weep (the juice will start leaking out and soften the candy toppings).

Notes

Tips & Tricks

Cut the apples right before using them, then pat them very dry with paper towels before dipping in chocolate.
Reheating the caramel too much will make it hard to work with and cause it to set up too firm. If you need to reheat it, reheat in 15 second increments on half power.
Add the toppings immediately after drizzling with caramel or they won’t stick.
When removing from the tray, use sharp kitchen scissors to cut away overhanging caramel drizzles. This will give you nice, clean edges!

White Chocolate Drizzle: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup of white chocolate chips and ½ teaspoon of neutral oil (like avocado or canola) in 30 second increments, stirring in between until smooth. Pour into a Ziploc bag and use scissors to cut the corner, forming a small hole. This will give you a pretty drizzle!

Halloween Monster Apple Slices: Start with chocolate dipped apple slices - you may want to cover the whole apple instead of just ¾. Once set, add the caramel drizzle and a white chocolate “zombie” drizzle about half way up the slices. Then add one or two monster eyes and some fun Halloween sprinkles.

Storage: These are best served fresh. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 hours or at room temperature for 1-2 hours. The longer they sit, the more chance they will weep (the juice will start leaking out and soften the candy toppings).

Nutrition