Ingredients:

  • 6 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well) - (Approximately 700g)
  • 6 wooden craft sticks or lollipop sticks
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon water (15 ml)
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (227g)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (240ml)
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup (120ml)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5g)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (5ml)
  • Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, peanuts) (Optional)
  • Mini chocolate chips (Optional)
  • Sprinkles (because, why not?) (Optional)
  • Sea salt flakes (Optional)

Instructions:

  1. Wash apples thoroughly, remove stems, and insert sticks into the stem end. Soak in lemon juice and water mixture to prevent browning, then dry completely with paper towels. This is crucial for the caramel to adhere.
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  3. Combine butter, sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and salt in the heavy-bottomed saucepan.
  4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
  5. Once the sugar is dissolved, stop stirring and insert the candy thermometer. Cook, without stirring, until the caramel reaches 245°F (118°C) – firm-ball stage.
  6. Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  7. Working quickly, dip each apple into the caramel, turning to coat evenly. Lift and let excess caramel drip off. You might need to tilt the pan or gently swirl the apple.
  8. Immediately sprinkle with desired toppings before the caramel sets.
  9. Place the coated apples on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the caramel.
  10. Bring to room temperature slightly before serving for optimal chewiness.