It’s Almost Halloween, So Make These Mini Caramel Apples
Caramel and candy apples are the staple sweet at any fair and festival, especially this time of year. This traditional fall treat is something I remember thoroughly enjoying as a child and it always makes me think of Halloween.
To be honest, I haven’t had a caramel apple in a very long time. As an adult, I hate how messy they are and how it’s inevitable to get stuck in your teeth. Not to mention the unnecessary sugar rush. However, there was something about this year that made me think about this sweet treat again so I searched for an easier way to eat a caramel apple. Introduce the mini version that is so simple and easy to eat. Why didn’t I think of this sooner?
Before we get into the recipe, let’s talk about the history.
Caramel apples were invented many years after the candy apple (the red coated sugar treat), in the 1950s, by a Kraft Foods employee. The caramel apple invention resulted from experimentation with holiday candy, experimenting with excess caramels from Halloween sales. The Kraft Foods employee simply melted them down, added apples, and the rest is history. Huh, crazy how that happens!
Want to learn how to make these mini goodies?
INGREDIENTS
3 – 4 granny smith apples
1 11 oz bag caramel melts
2 tablespoons water
Candy sticks
Toppings (optional): chopped walnuts, almonds or peanuts, graham crackers, coconut, crushed pretzels, candy corn, or whatever you desire
INSTRUCTIONS
Line a plate or cutting board with parchment paper and set aside.
Use a melon baller or metal spoon and scoop out round balls of the apple.
Insert candy sticks in the top and pat the apple with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Set aside.
In a small saucepan over low heat, slowly melt the caramels and water stirring constantly until smooth. Alternatively, I have used an easy caramel dip from the grocery store. Just warm the dip up in a microwave safe dish, 15 seconds at a time until the caramel is melted and soft.
Dip each mini apple into the caramel allowing the access to drip off.
Then dip in chosen toppings (optional).
Place on a plate or cutting board with parchment paper and place in the refrigerator to set.
These bite-sized caramel apples will become your new favorite treat. They are perfect for parties, small get togethers or just when you have a sweet tooth. Be sure to make them the day you plan to eat… the apples are best when eaten fresh.
Happy Halloween friends. Peace & Love.
Nikki
Do you make this sweet treat? What is your favorite caramel apple topping?
Please leave me a comment below or share a photo on Instagram and tag @TheSunshineHustle.
