Description
Create perfect, glossy caramel apples where the chewy caramel sticks flawlessly every time. This guide shares the secrets to a foolproof coating and topping ideas.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 medium Granny Smith apples
- 6 wooden or sturdy lollipop sticks
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- Optional Toppings: Chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, crushed cookies
Instructions
- Thoroughly wash and dry the apples. Remove any wax residue by briefly dipping the apples in boiling water for 5 seconds, then dry completely. Insert sticks firmly into the stem end.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine butter, sugar, and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
- Stop stirring once boiling. Insert a candy thermometer. Cook until the mixture reaches 245 degrees F (soft-ball stage). This is crucial for chewy caramel.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully whisk in the sweetened condensed milk, salt, and vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Return the pan to low heat and stir constantly until the temperature reaches 248 degrees F. Remove immediately from heat.
- Let the caramel cool for 5 to 10 minutes before dipping. This allows the caramel to thicken slightly, helping it adhere better.
- Dip each apple into the caramel, tilting the pan to cover the apple evenly. Lift the apple and slowly rotate it to let excess caramel drip off. Work quickly.
- Immediately roll the coated apple in your chosen toppings, or place it on the prepared baking sheet to set.
- Allow the caramel apples to cool completely at room temperature until the caramel is firm before serving or storing.
Notes
- Ensure apples are completely dry; moisture prevents caramel from sticking.
- Do not stir the caramel once it reaches a boil, as this can cause crystallization.
- Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature readings; this step is key to the right texture.
- If the caramel seems too thin after dipping, let it cool another 2-3 minutes and try again.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop Candy Making
- Cuisine: American (Inspired by Italian technique)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apple
- Calories: Approx. 550
- Sugar: Approx. 80g
- Sodium: Approx. 150mg
- Fat: Approx. 22g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 85g
- Fiber: Approx. 1g
- Protein: Approx. 4g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 70mg