There’s something undeniably nostalgic about caramel apples. They remind me of crisp autumn days spent at county fairs, with the sweet scent of caramel wafting through the air. This recipe will guide you through making your very own caramel apples at home, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup of light corn syrup
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crushed cookies for topping (optional)
  • Wooden sticks or popsicle sticks

Instructions

Start by washing the apples thoroughly to remove any wax. Dry them completely and insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple, pushing it about halfway down.

In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, light corn syrup, salt, and vanilla extract. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring, allowing it to bubble for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it reaches a rich golden color. You can also use a candy thermometer and aim for 240°F (115°C) for the soft-ball stage.

Once the caramel is ready, carefully remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it cool for a minute, then dip each apple into the caramel, swirling it around until well-coated. Allow any excess caramel to drip off before placing the apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

If you’d like to add toppings, now is the time! While the caramel is still warm, roll the apples in chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crushed cookies to add a fun twist.

Let the caramel apples sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the caramel to set. For an extra touch, you can chill them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving.

These caramel apples are not only delicious but also a great way to create lasting memories. Enjoy them with friends during a cozy movie night or as a delightful treat for a fall gathering!