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Foolproof Homemade Chewy Caramel Apples

A glossy, finished caramel apple with a wooden stick inserted, sitting on a white marble counter.
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Make chewy caramel apples that stick perfectly using this easy, step-by-step recipe. Includes tips for preventing runny caramel and topping suggestions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium firm apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 12 wooden or parchment-lined lollipop sticks

Instructions

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Remove the stems. Insert one stick firmly into the core of each apple.
  2. Wipe the surface of each apple with a paper towel dipped in white vinegar to remove any wax residue. This helps the caramel stick. Let the apples dry completely.
  3. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, and butter.
  4. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
  5. Stop stirring once the mixture boils. Insert a candy thermometer.
  6. Cook the caramel without stirring until the temperature reaches 245 degrees Fahrenheit (Firm Ball stage). This usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
  7. Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately. Carefully stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Let the caramel cool slightly for about 5 minutes; it should thicken slightly but still be pourable.
  8. Tilt the saucepan and dip each apple into the caramel, rotating to coat evenly. Lift the apple and allow excess caramel to drip off.
  9. Place the coated apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  10. Let the caramel apples set completely at room temperature for at least 2 hours before serving or adding toppings.

Notes

  • For the best results, use apples that are cold and completely dry.
  • If the caramel seems too thin after cooling slightly, return it to low heat for one minute, stirring gently, then cool again.
  • To make caramel apple slices, cut the apples into thick wedges after washing and drying, insert toothpicks instead of sticks, and dip the wedges quickly.
  • For chocolate drizzle, melt 4 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Drizzle over the set caramel.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://whiskdaily.com/caramel-apples-foolproof-chewy-coating/