Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Caramel Apple Bites are a quick, fun, and mess-free way to enjoy the classic fall flavor combo of apples and caramel. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, after-school snacks, or autumn gatherings. They’re simple to make, endlessly customizable, and deliver the crisp sweetness of apples with a rich caramel finish in every bite.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)soft caramels or caramel dipsalted peanuts or crushed pretzels (optional)toppings like mini chocolate chips or sprinkles (optional)toothpicks or mini skewerslemon juice (to prevent browning)
directions
Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Cut into bite-sized chunks, removing cores and seeds.
Toss apple pieces with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. Pat dry with a paper towel.
If using wrapped caramels, melt them in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water or cream, stirring until smooth.
Insert toothpicks or mini skewers into each apple piece.
Dip each apple bite halfway into the warm caramel. Let excess drip off.
Immediately roll in chopped peanuts, crushed pretzels, or other toppings if using.
Place on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to set.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 24 bites depending on apple size.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 15-20 minutesTotal time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
Use white chocolate or melted peanut butter chips instead of caramel.
Add a dash of cinnamon to the caramel for a fall spice twist.
Drizzle with melted chocolate for a gourmet touch.
Try apple slices instead of chunks for a different presentation.
Top with crushed graham crackers or toffee bits for crunch.
storage/reheating
Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.To prevent sticking, place parchment paper between layers.Best served cold; reheating is not recommended.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, make up to one day ahead and refrigerate.
What apples work best?
Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness.
Can I use store-bought caramel dip?
Yes, it works great and saves time.
How do I keep the caramel from sliding off?
Make sure apple pieces are dry and chill immediately after dipping.
Can I skip the lemon juice?
It helps prevent browning, but can be omitted if serving immediately.
Are these messy?
Not too messy, especially with toothpicks and chilled caramel.
Can I use nuts other than peanuts?
Yes, try pecans, walnuts, or almonds.
Can kids help make these?
Absolutely, they’re great for little hands with supervision around hot caramel.
How do I melt the caramel?
Microwave in short bursts with a splash of cream or use a saucepan over low heat.
Do they travel well?
Yes, just keep them chilled in a sealed container with parchment layers.
Conclusion
Caramel Apple Bites are a simple, fun, and delicious way to capture the cozy flavors of fall. Whether you’re making them for a party or a quick treat, these mini delights are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Easy to customize and perfect for the season, they’re fall snacking at its finest.
PrintCaramel Apple Bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 30 bites 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Caramel Apple Bites are an easy, fun, and delicious fall snack. They deliver all the flavors of a caramel apple in bite-sized form—perfect for parties, kids, or a quick autumn treat.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup soft caramel candies (such as Kraft), unwrapped
- 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 1/3 cup crushed peanuts, toffee bits, or sprinkles (optional)
- Toothpicks or small skewers
Instructions
- Wash and dry the apples. Cut into bite-sized chunks, removing the core and seeds.
- Insert a toothpick or skewer into each apple piece and set aside on parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
- Dip each apple bite into the caramel, letting the excess drip off.
- Immediately roll or sprinkle with crushed nuts, toffee bits, or sprinkles if desired.
- Place the finished bites on parchment paper to set. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy within a few hours.
Notes
- Use lemon juice on apple pieces to prevent browning if preparing ahead of time.
- Be sure apples are dry before dipping to help caramel stick better.
- Try different toppings like mini chocolate chips or crushed cookies for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 bites
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
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