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Crisp tart apple slices dipped in silky chocolate and chewy caramel make these chocolate covered caramel apple slices a party favorite and a fun spin on the classic fall treat. They are easy for little hands to hold and you can roll them in any toppings you love. After making these for my niece's birthday one year they quickly became a tradition for family movie nights and class treats. The way the chocolate snaps and the caramel stretches as you bite in is pure fun.
I first tried making these after a fall festival when we had candy leftovers and apples in the fridge. My son loves choosing different toppings for each slice and honestly I always sneak a few extra for myself.
Ingredients
- Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples: Crisp tart apples hold their structure and play perfectly against the sweetness of the toppings. Choose firm apples with no bruises
- Milk or dark chocolate melting wafers: Reliable melting chocolate ensures smooth glossy coverage and quick setting. Select a brand like Ghirardelli for best flavor
- Soft caramel squares: Convenient caramels melt quickly and coat evenly. I always choose fresh soft caramels so the drizzle stays gooey
- Heavy cream: Mixed into caramel it keeps the texture silky and pourable
- Complementary variety of chocolate melting wafers (optional): Optional for a decorative drizzle. I sometimes use white or extra dark chocolate for contrast
- Mini M&Ms, chopped nuts or any small toppings from the pantry: These add crunch and pops of color. Toasted coconut and crushed pretzels are favorites at our house
Instructions
- Slicing the Apples:
- Slice each washed and dried apple from top to bottom into about half inch thick slices. Remove the stem and carefully carve out seeds or core fibers using a melon baller and a paring knife. Try not to pierce all the way through
- Inserting Popsicle Sticks:
- Gently insert a food safe popsicle stick into the base of each apple slice halfway up for easy dipping and holding. If your apple is very crisp use a knife to help start the opening
- Melting the Chocolate:
- Melt milk or dark chocolate wafers according to package directions either in a microwave bowl or a double boiler. Before dipping ensure each slice is extra dry so the chocolate adheres well
- Dipping the Apple Slices:
- Dip each apple slice fully into the melted chocolate up close to the stick. Let the excess drip off then lay the slices in a single layer on a parchment lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for about five to ten minutes until set
- Preparing Caramel Drizzle:
- Melt caramel squares with heavy cream in a microwave safe bowl using short bursts and stirring until smooth. Allow to cool slightly but make sure the caramel stays fluid enough to drizzle
- Adding Toppings:
- Once chocolate and caramel are still warm but not hot use a spoon to drizzle caramel over each chocolate covered slice. For extra flair drizzle a second chocolate on top. Quickly add your toppings so they stick before everything sets
- Chilling and Serving:
- Return the finished apples to the fridge for ten to fifteen minutes until firm. For best flavor and texture serve the same day preferably within a few hours and keep chilled until ready to eat
When I use salted nuts or peanut butter chips as toppings it reminds me of my grandmother's famous holiday apple tray. These playful slices always bring back memories of afternoons spent dipping and laughing in the kitchen with my sister.
Storage Tips
These are best enjoyed the day they are made since apples can release moisture and the chocolate coating may lose its snap over time. Store in a single layer in the fridge and avoid stacking as they can stick together. If you need to keep them for a few extra hours let them come to room temperature five minutes before serving so flavors pop.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use dairy free chocolate melting wafers to make these slices completely vegan and coconut milk instead of heavy cream for the caramel. If apples are out of season try dipping firm pear slices. Sunflower seeds or crispy rice cereal are smart swaps for nut free environments.
Serving Suggestions
These treats are a hit on dessert boards and kids lunchboxes or wrapped in clear bags as party favors. Set out bowls with different toppings and let everyone decorate their own. For fall gatherings pumpkin pie spice or crushed gingersnaps create cozy flavor twists.
Cultural Fun
Chocolate covered caramel apples are a modern take on the classic autumn street fair treat dating back over a hundred years. The slice form makes them more approachable for crowded events and the endless topping combos turn it into a creative project for all ages.
Seasonal Adaptations
Chopped freeze dried berries for tangy spring color Toasted pecans or cinnamon chips for autumn flavor Festive colored sprinkles for any holiday
Success Stories
When I first tried these at a class party the kids could not stop raving and even the teacher asked for my recipe. At home they disappear within minutes of coming out of the fridge. The hands on dipping and decorating makes it a real memory maker.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Chocolate covered caramel apple slices are not ideal for freezing as thawed apples become watery and toppings slide off. For make ahead fun prepare all toppings ahead and slice the apples just before dipping. If you want a frozen treat go for banana or strawberry slices with the same toppings.
These chocolate covered caramel apple slices are sure to be the star of your next party. Have fun experimenting with different toppings and enjoy every crisp, chewy bite!
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I keep apple slices from browning?
Pat sliced apples dry thoroughly before coating. The chocolate also acts as a seal to keep the apples fresh and slow browning.
- → Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, honeycrisp or granny smith apples work well, but other firm varieties can be used based on your taste preference.
- → How do I melt the chocolate properly?
Melt chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, stirring regularly to avoid burning until smooth and glossy.
- → What toppings go well on these apple slices?
Popular toppings include mini M&M's, chopped pecans, crushed cookies, or sprinkles for added flavor and texture.
- → How should I store chocolate caramel apple slices?
Keep them refrigerated until serving and enjoy within a few hours for best texture and flavor. Avoid storing overnight.