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Perfect Caramel Dipped Apple Slices with Toffee Bits

caramel dipped apple slices - featured image

These caramel apple slices are a quick and easy fall treat, made with crisp apples, a silky stovetop caramel, and crunchy toffee bits. They come together in under 20 minutes and are perfect for parties or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith recommended)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
  • ½ cup packed dark brown sugar
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ cup toffee bits
  • Popsicle sticks (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the apples: Wash and dry apples. If using popsicle sticks, insert them into the top of each apple. Slice apples into ½-inch thick rounds or wedges, removing seeds and tough core pieces. Place slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and set aside.
  2. Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Add the packed dark brown sugar and stir constantly until the sugar dissolves into the butter, about 2 minutes. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Reduce heat to low and let simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the caramel thickens slightly and turns a deep amber color.
  3. Finish the caramel: Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and sea salt. Taste and adjust salt if needed. If too thick, add a splash more cream; if too thin, let simmer another minute.
  4. Dip the apple slices: Working quickly while caramel is warm, dip each apple slice into the caramel, letting excess drip back into the pan. Use a fork or tongs to coat evenly. Place dipped slices back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Add the toffee bits: While caramel is still tacky, sprinkle toffee bits generously over each slice. Press them in gently with your fingers. If caramel sets before adding all toffee bits, refrigerate baking sheet for 2 minutes to firm up slightly, then continue.
  6. Set and serve: Let caramel-dipped slices sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to set, or refrigerate for 5 minutes. Caramel should be firm but still slightly soft. Serve immediately or store as directed.

Notes

Use room-temperature cream to prevent caramel from seizing. Don’t rush the caramel; medium heat is best. Let caramel cool slightly before dipping apples—warm enough to flow but thick enough to cling. If caramel sets before you finish dipping, add a tablespoon of warm water and stir over low heat. Don’t skip the salt; it balances the sweetness.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel apple slices, toffee bits, fall dessert, easy caramel apples, quick dessert