Salted Caramel Pecan Apples

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

Ready to make your fall desserts unforgettable? Dive into these Salted Caramel Pecan Apples. With the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy, they're a treat that captures the essence of the season.

Ingredients for Salted Caramel Pecan Apples

Granny Smith apples are our go-to choice here; their tartness pairs beautifully with the sweet caramel. Granulated sugar is essential for creating that rich caramel base, while unsalted butter adds creaminess and depth. Heavy cream helps smooth out the caramel, making it perfect for coating. Pecans add a nice crunch and nutty flavor that complements the caramel. A touch of sea salt enhances all these flavors, and vanilla extract adds a hint of warmth and complexity. Lastly, popsicle sticks are not just functional but make these apples fun to eat!

Tips & Tricks

  • If the caramel starts to harden before you're done, simply reheat it gently to soften it up.
  • Ensure your apples are dry; any moisture will cause the caramel to slip right off.
  • If you want a thicker caramel coating, dip the apples twice, allowing the first layer to set slightly before the second dip.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these apples as a stunning centerpiece for a fall dessert table. They pair wonderfully with a sharp cheddar cheese platter, which contrasts beautifully with the sweet and salty flavors. For a cozy evening, enjoy alongside a hot mug of spiced cider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, while Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness, you can use any firm apple variety you like.
What if I don't have popsicle sticks?
You can use sturdy skewers or even forks as an alternative.
How do I store leftover caramel apples?
Wrap each apple individually in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Salted Caramel Pecan Apples Recipe Walkthrough

First, start by giving your Granny Smith apples a good wash. Make sure they are completely dry before you insert a popsicle stick into each one; this will help the caramel adhere better. Once your apples are prepped, grab a medium saucepan and set it over medium heat. Add your sugar and butter, stirring constantly. Watch as the sugar melts and transforms into a deep amber color; this should take about 10 minutes.

Now, it’s time to carefully add the heavy cream. Pour it in slowly while continuing to stir. You'll see the mixture bubble up ferociously, but keep stirring until it smooths out. Once it’s silky and combined, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and half a teaspoon of sea salt, which will enhance the caramel's flavor.

Allow your caramel to cool slightly — just enough so it thickens a bit but is still easy to work with. Dip each apple into the caramel, ensuring an even coat all around. After dipping, roll them in chopped pecans for that delightful crunch. Finally, sprinkle the remaining sea salt over the top of each apple. Place them on parchment paper and let them set at room temperature.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to make with only a few ingredients needed.
  • The perfect blend of tart, sweet, and salty flavors.
  • A fun twist on traditional caramel apples.
  • Great project for kids and adults alike.
  • Perfect for autumn gatherings or holiday gifts.

Ingredients

4 medium-sized Granny Smith apples
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
4 popsicle sticks

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Wash and thoroughly dry the apples then insert a popsicle stick into the top of each apple.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and butter, stirring continuously until the sugar melts and the mixture becomes a deep amber color.
3. Carefully add the heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and half of the sea salt.
5. Allow the caramel to cool slightly, then dip each apple into the caramel, coating evenly.
6. Roll the caramel-coated apples in chopped pecans.
7. Sprinkle the remaining sea salt over the apples and place them on parchment paper to set.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!