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Foolproof Homemade Caramel Apples

Close-up of a Granny Smith apple partially dipped in glossy, rich caramel, ready to eat as a caramel apples treat.
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Make classic, sticky caramel apples that hold their coating perfectly every time. This guide covers the best apples and techniques for a guaranteed non-runny caramel.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 medium firm apples (Granny Smith recommended)
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Remove the stems and insert a sturdy wooden stick firmly into the core of each apple.
  2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, and butter.
  3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves. Stop stirring once it boils.
  4. Continue to cook the mixture without stirring until it reaches 245 degrees Fahrenheit (Firm Ball stage) on a candy thermometer. This usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
  5. Remove the pan from the heat immediately. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Let the caramel cool for about 5 to 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  6. Tilt the pan and dip each apple into the caramel, rotating to coat completely. Lift the apple and allow excess caramel to drip back into the pan.
  7. Place the coated apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  8. Let the caramel apples set completely at room temperature for at least 1 hour before serving or adding toppings.

Notes

  • For the best adhesion, dip the apples when the caramel temperature is between 235 and 240 degrees Fahrenheit after the initial cooling period.
  • If the caramel becomes too thick while dipping, return it to low heat briefly to loosen it, but do not let it boil again.
  • Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith; softer apples may slide off the coating.
  • For gourmet apples, roll the dipped apples in chopped nuts, sprinkles, or drizzle with melted chocolate before the caramel sets.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerycourier.com/foolproof-homemade-caramel-apples-recipe/