Homemade Caramel Apples are Perfect for Fall
Nothing says fall quite like a crisp apple coated in rich, buttery caramel. Homemade caramel apples are a fun, hands-on treat for kids and adults alike. They're perfect for Halloween parties, harvest celebrations, or just a cozy afternoon snack. With a few simple ingredients, you can make caramel that’s smooth, glossy, and sticks to your apples beautifully every time.
Ingredients (makes 6–8 apples)
For the caramel:
- 1 cup Smith Brothers unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the apples:
- 6–8 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), washed and dried
- Wooden sticks or skewers
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crushed cookies
Instructions
- Wash and dry the apples thoroughly — any water or wax on the skin will prevent the caramel from sticking.
- Insert wooden sticks firmly into the tops and set the prepared apples aside on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk and bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the caramel reaches 245–250°F on a candy thermometer (firm-ball stage).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt.
- Tilt the saucepan slightly so the caramel is deep enough for dipping. Holding them by the sticks, carefully dip each apple one at a time, turning to coat evenly.
- Let excess caramel drip back into the pan.
- If using additional toppings, immediately roll in nuts or sprinkles.
- Place dipped apples back on the parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
- Allow to cool at room temperature for at least 30–60 minutes. For faster setting, you can refrigerate them briefly, but be aware that this can slightly change the caramel texture.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Caramel
Caramel won't stick: Dry those apples thoroughly! Even a little moisture can prevent caramel from sticking. Pat your apples completely dry before you dip them. Also make sure your apples are room temperature so they don't form condensation (that's just more moisture!)
Use a candy thermometer. Hitting precisely the right temperature will ensure it's the right texture.
Too runny = not hot enough
Hard and cracking = too hot
Is your caramel a little too thick? Stir in a splash of warm cream to help loosen it up.
Grainy caramel? Stir gently and avoid scraping crystallized caramel off the sides of the pot.
Work quickly but carefully, since caramel thickens fast as it cools. Dip your apples right after the caramel is ready.
Experiment with toppings: Nuts, crushed cookies, or a drizzle of melted chocolate can add extra flavor and texture.
Homemade caramel apples are a delicious way to celebrate fall’s bounty. With Smith Brothers butter, your caramel will have that rich, creamy flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Serve them at a harvest party, give them as gifts, or enjoy one under a cozy blanket. Either way, they’re fall perfection.
