Irresistible Holiday Caramel Apples with Nuts
Crisp apples dipped in buttery caramel and rolled in crunchy nuts — a simple, festive dessert that’s perfect for any holiday celebration!
Ingredients
- 6 small crisp apples Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts peanuts, pecans, or almonds
- Wooden sticks for dipping
- Parchment paper lightly greased
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Wash and dry apples thoroughly to remove wax; insert wooden sticks into the tops.
- Make the caramel: In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, and condensed milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until caramel reaches 245°F (soft-ball stage).
- Flavor & cool slightly: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, and let sit for 2–3 minutes.
- Dip the apples: Tilt the pan and dip each apple, coating evenly. Allow excess caramel to drip off.
- Add nuts: Roll the bottom of each caramel apple in chopped nuts.
- Set & cool: Place apples on parchment paper and let cool completely before serving or wrapping.
Notes
Tips & Variations
Toppings: Swap nuts for mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or crushed pretzels. No-stick trick: Lightly oil parchment paper to prevent sticking. Chocolate drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate for a gourmet finish. Nut-free option: Replace nuts with crushed cereal or cookie crumbs.Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 1 week, but let apples come to room temp before eating. Do not freeze — caramel texture will harden and crack.✅ Suitable for:
Vegetarian dietGluten-Free diet
❌ Not suitable for:
Vegan dietDairy-Free diet
Low-Sugar diet