Sliced Caramel Apple Pops Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with Sliced Caramel Apple Pops – the ultimate snack that blends nostalgia with modern fun! Imagine crisp apple slices dipped in silky caramel (and maybe a little chocolate), decked out with sprinkles, nuts, or crushed cookies, and served up on a stick for a treat that’s both playful and utterly irresistible. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, these pops are a delightful twist on the classic caramel apple, making them easy to eat and even easier to customize for every craving.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Ingredients:
- 3 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 (11 oz) bag soft caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or sprinkles
- 6–8 wooden popsicle sticks or skewers
How to Make Sliced Caramel Apple Pops
Step 1: Prep and Slice the Apples
Start by giving your apples a good wash and thorough drying—this helps the toppings stick and ensures every bite is crisp and fresh. Slice each apple into 1/2-inch thick rounds, then carefully remove any seeds or core pieces. Gently insert a wooden popsicle stick or skewer into the bottom of each slice. Before moving on, use a paper towel to pat the apple slices dry; a dry surface is key for helping the caramel grip the apples.
Step 2: Melt the Caramel
Unwrap your soft caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with the heavy cream. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until you end up with a smooth, glossy caramel. The cream makes the caramel beautifully silky and easy to dip, so don’t skip it!
Step 3: Dip the Apple Slices
Carefully dip each apple slice halfway into the warm caramel, then hold the pop over the bowl and let any extra caramel drip off. Lay the coated pops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet—that way, nothing will stick and cleanup is a breeze. Work quickly before the caramel sets!
Step 4: Add Chocolate and Toppings (Optional)
Want to take your Sliced Caramel Apple Pops over the top? In a separate bowl, melt your chocolate chips (the same way as the caramel) and drizzle over the pops. Then shower with your favorite toppings—chopped nuts for crunch, crushed cookies for texture, or rainbow sprinkles for pure fun—while the coating is still sticky.
Step 5: Set and Serve
Refrigerate the pops for 15 to 20 minutes, which helps the caramel and chocolate firmly set around each apple slice. Once they’re firm, serve your Sliced Caramel Apple Pops right away—chilled or at room temperature, according to your preference.
How to Serve Sliced Caramel Apple Pops
Garnishes
Dress your Sliced Caramel Apple Pops up with classic favorites like chopped peanuts or pecans, or go wild with mini chocolate chips, rainbow sprinkles, or toasted coconut for even more texture and color. The extra sparkle makes them look as good as they taste!
Side Dishes
Serve these pops alongside hot apple cider or a cold glass of milk for an instantly festive fall dessert spread. They’re also great beside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or simple cinnamon sugar tortilla chips if you want a crunchy, sweet side that keeps the apple theme going.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, group several Sliced Caramel Apple Pops in a mason jar or arrange them in a decorative basket lined with parchment—standing upright so the dazzling toppings are on full display. Individually wrap them in cellophane for an adorable party favor, or set up a dipping station so everyone can create their own masterpiece!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
While Sliced Caramel Apple Pops are best the day they’re made, you can absolutely store any extras. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep their fresh flavor and texture for up to 24 hours. If storing, consider separating layers with wax paper to keep the caramel or chocolate from sticking.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for Sliced Caramel Apple Pops; the texture of both the apples and caramel can change dramatically, leading to an overly soft, watery snack once thawed. If you do need to chill them for longer, refrigeration is definitely safest!
Reheating
Since these pops are naturally served chilled or at room temperature, you don’t need to reheat them. If the caramel feels too hard after sitting in the fridge, let pops rest on the counter for a few minutes before enjoying; that’ll restore their soft, chewy bite without the need for a microwave.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for Sliced Caramel Apple Pops?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are popular for their tart-sweet flavor and sturdy texture, you can try Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady for a different taste. Just make sure the apples are firm so they hold up to slicing and dipping.
Why won’t the caramel stick to my apple slices?
Usually, this happens if the apples are too wet or waxy. Make sure to dry each apple slice as thoroughly as possible and consider lightly scraping off any shiny coating from store-bought apples. The drier the surface, the better your caramel will cling!
Can I make Sliced Caramel Apple Pops nut-free?
Yes! Simply skip the nuts and use crushed cookies, pretzels, granola, or colorful sprinkles instead. The recipe is easily adaptable to suit allergies and preferences without losing any of the fun or flavor.
Is it possible to use homemade caramel?
Definitely, if you have a favorite homemade caramel, it will work beautifully for this recipe. Just make sure the texture is thick enough to cling to the apple slices, and be sure it’s fully cooled before serving so the pops don’t get too sticky.
How far ahead can I make Sliced Caramel Apple Pops for a party?
For best results, make these the day of your event or up to 24 hours ahead. Any longer and the apples may start to release juice, which could make the caramel slide off or become sticky. Keep them cold and covered until it’s time to enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Give these Sliced Caramel Apple Pops a try and watch them disappear faster than you can say “more, please!” With their cheerful appearance and big, nostalgic flavors, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat any day of the week. Dive in and enjoy making (and devouring) your new favorite snack!
Print
Sliced Caramel Apple Pops Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 pops 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sliced Caramel Apple Pops are a delightful treat combining crisp apple slices with gooey caramel, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 3 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 (11 oz) bag soft caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or sprinkles
- 6–8 wooden popsicle sticks or skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Wash and dry apples, slice into 1/2-inch rounds, remove seeds, and insert popsicle sticks.
- Melt Caramel: Microwave caramels with heavy cream in intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Dip Apples: Dip each apple slice halfway into caramel, let excess drip off, and place on parchment-lined sheet.
- Optional Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate chips, drizzle over caramel-dipped slices.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle with nuts, cookies, or sprinkles while caramel is soft.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until set. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
Notes:
- Dry apple slices well before dipping for best results.
- Best enjoyed the same day, store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Try a white chocolate drizzle for a fun twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 caramel apple pop
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 75 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
