Crisp, tart apples coated in a buttery homemade caramel glaze and rolled in crunchy toasted pecans—these classic caramel apples are a nostalgic treat perfect for autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or gourmet gifting.
Author:Mari
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:25 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Yield:6 apples 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
UnitsScale
6 medium Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples
6 wooden sticks
1cup unsalted butter
2cups packed brown sugar
1cup light corn syrup
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2cups chopped toasted pecans
Parchment paper or wax paper (for setting)
Instructions
Wash and thoroughly dry apples. Insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple and set aside.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk.
Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Continue cooking until the caramel reaches 245°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer (firm-ball stage).
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let the caramel cool slightly to thicken.
Dip each apple into the caramel, turning to evenly coat. Let excess drip off.
Immediately roll the bottom half of each apple in chopped toasted pecans.
Place apples onto prepared sheet and let cool completely at room temperature.
For a glossy finish, wrap individually in cellophane once fully set.
Notes
Use cold, thoroughly dried apples to help the caramel adhere better.
Toasted pecans add depth of flavor and crunch—try walnuts for variation.
Work quickly as caramel firms fast once off heat.
Store in a cool place; do not refrigerate as moisture may affect caramel texture.