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Homemade Caramel Apples

Close-up of four glossy caramel apples on wooden sticks, ready to be enjoyed.
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Learn how to make classic caramel apples at home. This recipe guides you through creating a smooth caramel that coats crisp apples perfectly, offering a delightful fall treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium apples (like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
  • 6 wooden popsicle sticks or skewers
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional toppings: chopped nuts, sprinkles, sea salt

Instructions

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry your apples. Remove any stickers. Insert a wooden stick firmly into the stem end of each apple.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
  3. Cook over medium heat, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the firm-ball stage.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat. Carefully stir in the vanilla extract and salt. The mixture will bubble.
  5. Immediately dip each apple into the caramel, tilting the pan to coat evenly. Let excess caramel drip off.
  6. Place coated apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  7. If using, immediately sprinkle with desired toppings before the caramel sets.
  8. Allow the caramel apples to set completely at room temperature, or chill briefly in the refrigerator for faster setting.

Notes

  • For best results, chill your apples in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before dipping. This helps the caramel set quickly.
  • Ensure your candy thermometer is accurate.
  • Work quickly once the caramel reaches temperature, as it will begin to harden.
  • If the caramel hardens in the pan, you can gently reheat it over low heat.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://blissbatter.com/caramel-apples-county-fair-classic/