Gourmet Caramel Apples Recipe

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It's finally October and the beginning of my favorite time of year! Decorating for Halloween and baking delicious Pumpkin Bread. Want to make this time of year even sweeter? Grab the kids or grandkids and make some Gourmet Caramel Apples!

Yes, you can buy pre-made Candy Apples or Taffy Apples at the store, but where's the fun in that?

Not to mention, when making your own, you decide what toppings to use. If you don't see your favorite topping listed in my recipe, just substitute your favorite topping in step six of the recipe.

How to Make Candied Apples

Ingredients

• 1 tsp. softened butter
• 5 medium Granny Smith apples (or a variety of apples)
• 1/2 cup toffee bits
• 1/2 cup mini M&M's
• 1/2 cup butter-finger bits
• 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
• 1 11 oz. bag Kraft caramels

Instructions

Remove the stem from the apples and replace it with a popsicle stick (or reusable treat stick).

Place a piece of wax paper over a baking sheet. Spread the softened butter over the waxed paper and set aside. 

Dip apples, one at a time, into boiling water for 10 seconds; wipe dry. This process helps to remove the wax off the apples, which in turn helps the caramel to stick to the apples.

Place the toppings (toffee bits, mini M&M's, butter-finger bits, and chopped peanuts) into their own individual bowls. 

Unwrap the caramels and add to a small saucepan, along with 2 tablespoons of water. Place over low heat and allow to melt, stirring frequently.

Dip apples, one at a time, into the caramel sauce; turn to coat. Quickly dip into the topping of choice, while turning.

If there are bare spots, fill with additional topping. 

Place apples on waxed paper and allow to set for approximately 30 minutes. 

What Are the Best Apples For Caramel Apples?

Unlike baking a pie, I don't think there is a wrong apple to use when it comes to making candied apples.

I believe that Granny Smith apples are usually used to balance out the tartness of the apples with the sweetness of the caramel, and toppings.

However, if you prefer Honey Crisp, Galla, Fuji, or my personal favorite, Pink Ladies, go for it!  There are no "gourmet caramel apple police" the last time I checked!

Don't forget to get the kiddos involved. Yes, it might mean a bit more mess, but that's what memories are made of.

Believe me, before you know it, you'll be longing for these days, so make the most of them while you can!

Although you can use popsicle or lollipop sticks, I used reusable treat sticks that I purchased at Walmart (made by Wilton).

Gourmet Caramel Apples Topping Ideas

As you can tell, I like mixing things up. I don't always take the traditional path when it comes to my candied apple recipe.

Don't get me wrong, I love a juicy apple, covered with gooey caramel and crunchy peanuts as much as anybody. Yet, I also enjoy playing around with other flavors.

One of my favorite flavors is toffee. Mini M&M's might be a bit too sweet for my taste, but kids love them.

Not to mention they sure do look festive! Some like adding sprinkles, but I've never been a sprinkle-kind of girl. Rather, I prefer some of the following toppings:

Candied Apple Toppings

• Toasted coconut
• Reese’s pieces
• Crushed pretzel pieces
• Drizzled chocolate
• White chocolate, peanuts butter, or butterscotch mini chocolate chips
• cookie crumbs

So, what's your favorite topping?

You may also enjoy the following recipes:

• Easy Mug Cake
• Homemade Raspberry Ice Cream
• Toffee Pecan Bars
• Easy Homemade Lemonade

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