Description
These caramel apples take a sweet, chewy, and colorful turn! Coated in buttery caramel and rolled in crushed peanuts, each apple is then decked out with rows of fruity gummy bears for a candy carnival vibe that kids (and adults) can’t resist.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala)
- 6 sturdy wooden sticks or skewers
- 1 tbsp white vinegar (to remove wax)
- Parchment paper
- 1 (14 oz) bag soft caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 cup chopped peanuts (or crushed almonds for variation)
- 2 cups gummy bears, assorted colors
- ½ cup caramel sauce (for extra drizzle, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Wash apples thoroughly in hot water with vinegar to remove the wax coating. Dry completely and insert wooden sticks firmly into the tops. Place apples on parchment paper and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes.
- Make the Caramel Coating: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt caramels with heavy cream while stirring continuously until smooth (about 5 minutes). Stir in vanilla extract if using, then remove from heat. Allow to cool slightly (1–2 minutes) so it thickens enough to coat without sliding off.
- Dip and Decorate: Dip each chilled apple into the caramel, swirling to coat evenly. Roll the lower half in chopped peanuts while the caramel is still sticky. Stick gummy bears around the top edge of each apple, pressing gently so they adhere to the warm caramel. Optional: drizzle a little extra caramel sauce over the top for shine.
- Let Set: Place apples on a parchment-lined tray and chill for about 20 minutes, or until the caramel is firm but still chewy.
Notes
- For a different flavor, try using crushed almonds instead of peanuts.
- Make sure the apples are completely dry before dipping to ensure the caramel sticks well.
- These apples are best enjoyed the same day they are made.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apple
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg