Sheet Pan Caramel Apples

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Sheet Pan Caramel Apples

 

If there’s one thing that screams fall in our family, it’s these Sheet Pan Caramel Apples! Every year when the leaves start turning and the weather cools down, my family eagerly requests this delightful treat. Imagine the classic caramel apple experience, but without the sticky mess. This recipe combines the nostalgic flavors of caramel, chocolate, and all the fixings in an easy-to-share, sheet pan style that everyone can enjoy together. The result? Slices of crisp apples drenched in gooey caramel and rich chocolate, topped with a variety of delicious toppings for a treat that’s sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients:

  • 4 large apples, cored and sliced into thin wedges (any variety—Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for a sweet bite)
  • 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted (milk, dark, or white chocolate)
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (or your favorite nuts like pecans or almonds)
  • 1/4 cup mini marshmallows
  • 1/4 cup sprinkles (optional, for a pop of color)
  • 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers (optional, for extra crunch)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for a sweet and salty finish)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Apples:
    • Start by washing and thoroughly drying the apples. Slice them into thin wedges, removing the core. For best results, slice the apples evenly to ensure they cook and caramelize uniformly. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined sheet pan. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
  2. Drizzle the Caramel:
    • Heat the caramel sauce in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to make it easier to drizzle. If it’s homemade, you can warm it gently on the stove. Drizzle the caramel evenly over the arranged apple slices, making sure to cover them generously. The caramel will slightly soften and cling to the apples, creating a luscious base for all the toppings.
  3. Add the Chocolate:
    • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring after each until the chocolate is smooth and completely melted. Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel-coated apple slices. The combination of the warm caramel and silky chocolate is pure bliss!
  4. Decorate with Toppings:
    • This is where the magic happens! Sprinkle the chopped peanuts (or any nuts you prefer) over the caramel and chocolate-drizzled apples. Add mini marshmallows, sprinkles, and crushed graham crackers as desired. Each topping brings a different texture and flavor, so don’t be afraid to get creative. You can even add things like crushed pretzels, toffee bits, or dried fruit for a unique twist.
  5. Finish with Sea Salt (Optional):
    • For a hint of contrast, lightly sprinkle sea salt over the entire pan. The salt will enhance the sweetness and give your caramel apples a sophisticated sweet-and-salty flavor profile. This step is optional, but if you’re a fan of salted caramel, you won’t want to skip it!
  6. Set and Serve:
    • Let the caramel and chocolate set for a few minutes to firm up slightly before serving. This makes it easier to pick up and enjoy the apple slices without too much mess. Serve immediately and watch these decadent bites disappear! If you’re not serving right away, you can store the tray in the refrigerator to help set the toppings.

Serving Info:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8 servings
  • Calories per Serving: 180 kcal (depending on the toppings used)

Tips and Tricks:

  1. Choosing the Right Apples:
    • Go for apples that are firm and crisp, such as Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp. Their sturdy texture holds up well under the caramel and chocolate. Plus, the tartness of Granny Smith apples pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
  2. Homemade Caramel Sauce:
    • If you have a few extra minutes, making your own caramel sauce takes these treats to a whole new level. Simply melt 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, add 6 tablespoons of butter, and stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
  3. Avoiding Brown Apples:
    • To prevent the apple slices from browning, toss them in a mixture of 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 cup of water before arranging them on the sheet pan. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure the toppings stick properly.
  4. Customization Galore:
    • Make this treat your own by using different combinations of toppings. Crushed Oreos, M&Ms, or even a drizzle of peanut butter can make these caramel apples extra special. Feel free to set up a “topping station” so everyone can customize their own slice!

Why Your Family Will Love These Sheet Pan Caramel Apples:

There’s something truly special about fall—the crisp air, the changing leaves, and of course, seasonal treats like caramel apples. But as much as we love traditional caramel apples, they can be tricky to eat, especially for little hands. That’s where this sheet pan version shines. It’s easy to make, easy to serve, and every bite is just as good as the classic version—if not better! The combination of sweet caramel, velvety chocolate, and crunchy toppings makes these treats irresistible. Whether you’re serving these for a family gathering, a Halloween party, or just as an after-dinner treat, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy the sweet taste of fall, one delicious slice at a time!

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