Caramel Candy Apple Slices (Printable)

Sweet apple slices coated in caramel and topped with crunchy crushed peanuts for a tasty snack.

# What You'll Need:

→ Apples

01 - 2 large crisp apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), washed and dried

→ Caramel

02 - 1 cup soft caramels (approximately 24 pieces), unwrapped
03 - 2 tablespoons heavy cream

→ Toppings

04 - 1/2 cup roasted salted peanuts, finely crushed
05 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
06 - 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (optional)

→ Additional

07 - 12 wooden popsicle sticks or lollipop sticks
08 - Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with nonstick spray.
02 - Cut each apple into 6 thick slices, removing the core and seeds from each slice. Pat slices dry with paper towels.
03 - Insert a popsicle stick into the bottom of each apple slice, pushing approximately halfway through.
04 - In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the caramels with heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth (approximately 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat.
05 - Dip each apple slice into the warm caramel, allowing excess to drip off. Use a spoon to help cover the sides if needed.
06 - Immediately sprinkle or dip the caramel-coated apple slices in crushed peanuts. Add chocolate chips or sea salt if desired.
07 - Place coated slices on the prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to set.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • They come together in under 30 minutes, which means you can go from idea to snacking faster than you'd think possible.
  • The contrast between tart apple, smooth caramel, and crunchy peanuts keeps every bite interesting and satisfying.
  • People genuinely believe you spent hours in the kitchen when really you just mastered a very simple trick.
02 -
  • Wet apples are the silent killer of this recipe—the caramel slides right off if there's any moisture, so patting them completely dry is non-negotiable despite feeling tedious.
  • Work quickly once the caramel is dipped because it cools and sets fast, and adding toppings to cool caramel means they won't stick properly.
03 -
  • If your caramel starts to thicken as you work, just pop it back on low heat for a few seconds to loosen it up—no need to start over.
  • Slightly underripe apples hold their shape better than very soft ones, and the tartness creates a more interesting flavor balance against the sweet caramel.
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