Mini Caramel Apples
“Learn how to make easy & delicious mini caramel apple bites! Easy recipe, perfect for fall parties!”
A few years ago I made these apple crisp caramel apples which I think are EVERYTHING!!! Mainly because I’m not too big on the whole candy apple thing, but these caramel apples were so doggone good!
It’s not that I don’t like candy apples it’s just that after a few bites I’m over it. This is why I’m so in love with these adorable little mini caramel apples! I saw these on Pinterest and KNEW I had to make these caramel apples with my little men.
The verdict is in, they loved them and so did I! I found myself just popping them left and right. That juicy, tart granny smith apples and that slightly chewy caramel was a match made in heaven!
And the pecan pieces were a perfect pairing, although I still prefer apple crisp topping on caramel apples
The bite-size proved to be “just enough”. I think these mini caramel apples would be fabulous for a fall party treat or just a way to use up some apples with the kiddos.
Be sure to read the recipe notes section for some tips on making these little cuties easier.
Our first two batches were a bit of trial and error. We followed a recipe we found on Pinterest and it was a disaster. The caramel slid right off the apple! So then we tried drying the apple off. The caramel still slid off again, just a bit slower. (kinda funny)
So then my genius husband gave me a tip to dip the caramel in ice water for a few seconds to do a quick set.
Where he got this from I have no idea. He’s one of those men who know the oddest things.
Well, it worked like a charm! That ice water helped set the caramel instantly and then we placed them in the freezer for a few minutes to help set the caramel completely. They were perfect!
Here Are A Few Mini Caramel Apple Making Tips:
- Get the caramel down the stick about 1/4 of an inch to create a seal so the water won’t seep in.
- Be sure the water is super, duper cold, and icy.
- Only dip the caramel into the water for a few seconds. You want a soft set, not a rock-hard one.
- Gently dry the caramels off with a paper towel when they come out of the water or place them right into the fridge or freezer to set completely.
- Be sure to squeeze the apple balls in a paper towel to remove the excess moisture BEFORE placing them into the caramel. If caramel doesn’t cling to the apple then you did not dry it off enough.
- Work quickly so that the caramel in the pot stays warm enough to easily coat the apples.
Watch me make these mini caramel apples from start to finish!
Get the Recipe: Mini Caramel Apples
Ingredients
- 3 large Granny Smith apples
- 18 lollipop sticks
- 1 ½ cups caramel baking bits or caramel chews of choice
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- Optional Toppings: crushed nuts, crushed cookies, sprinkles
Instructions
- Peel apples.
- Using a melon baller, scoop out apple balls.
- Insert the stick into the apple. Be careful not to puncture the stick through the other end.
- In a small pot, add caramel baking bits and heavy cream.
- Melt over low heat, stirring constantly until completely melted.
- Fill a small bowl with icy water. Set aside.
- Thoroughly dry the apple with a paper towel to remove excess moisture from the surface.
- Dip the apple into the caramel, swirling to coat and being sure to get the caramel on the stick a little. This will help keep out the water on the next step.
- Immediately dip the caramel apple into the icy water for a few second to quick set the caramel.
- Dry the caramel off gently with a paper towels.
- Press the top of the caramel apples into the desired topping if using.s
- Place caramel apples into the fridge or freezer to finish setting.
- Remove from fridge or freezer
- Enjoy!
- Repeat with all the mini caramel apples.
Video
Notes
Only dip the caramel into the water for a few seconds. You want a soft set, not a rock-hard one.
Gently dry the caramels off with a paper towel when they come out of the water OR place them right into the fridge or freezer.
Be sure to squeeze the apple balls in a paper towel to remove the excess moisture BEFORE placing them into the caramel. If caramel doesn't cling to the apple then you did not dry it off enough.
In the mood for more cute food? Check out these delicious eats!
Pumpkin Pie Bites
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ChocolatePudding Pie Bites
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What is the best storage for these? I know large apples are a two, maybe three day max. I need 24 hours! In the fridge?…counter? I’m wrapping individually for a party.
Can you freeze these for a couple of days?
How long will these keep in the fridge/freezer? Can they be made the day before the party?
Isnt there another substitue for these ready caramel bits..i just cant find them . Can we make the sauce from scratch without them ?
I’m curious if we can use the caramel apple dip that is sold in a tub in the produce aisle?
Isnt there another substitue for these ready caramel bits..i just cant find them . Can we make the sauce from scratch without them ?
Hello! Did you have any success with these lasting more than one day? I am worried if I make them the day before my son’s circus-themed party that they will not be good for the party the next day. Did you eat them the same day or try them day 2?? Thanks!!! Great video 🙂
Laura, did you end up making these for your son’s party? I would also like to make them for my daughter’s birthday, but I’m worried they won’t be good if I make them the day before. Please share your experience and tell me how you stored them. Thank you!
There was no link to a video for making the caramel apple bites.