Are you craving a sweet treat that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This caramel apple recipe, using the magic of sweetened condensed milk, is the perfect answer for satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you're looking for a quick dessert, a fun activity for a fall gathering, or a simple yet impressive homemade treat, this recipe is your go-to. Get ready to experience the rich, creamy caramel coating that will transform ordinary apples into extraordinary edible works of art!
Ingredients:
- 6 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are excellent choices)
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: Chopped nuts, sprinkles, sea salt
Instructions:
Get started:
- Wash and thoroughly dry your chosen apples. Using a sharp paring knife, carefully remove the stems. If desired, insert lollipop sticks into the tops of the apples for easier handling.
Make the caramel:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Stir constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. This is crucial – continuous stirring ensures a smooth and lump-free caramel.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the caramel reaches a slightly thicker consistency. The caramel should coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Be cautious as the cream might bubble slightly.
Caramelize the apples:
- Carefully dip each apple into the caramel, ensuring it's fully coated. You can use a spoon or tongs to help with this.
- For an extra thick caramel coating, you can dip the apples twice.
- Place the caramel apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet to allow the caramel to set.
Finishing touches:
- Once the caramel has set (this usually takes about 15-20 minutes), you can add your desired toppings, such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful salty-sweet contrast.
Tips for Caramel Apple Success:
- Use good quality apples: The flavor of your apples will significantly impact the final taste. Choose firm, crisp apples that hold their shape well.
- Don't rush the caramel: Low and slow is the key to perfect caramel. Take your time and stir consistently to prevent burning.
- Work quickly: Once the caramel is ready, dip the apples quickly to avoid the caramel from setting too soon.
- Prepare your workspace: Cover your work surface with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticky messes.
Variations:
- Spicy Caramel Apples: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of cinnamon to the caramel for a warm kick.
- Chocolate Caramel Apples: Drizzle melted dark, milk, or white chocolate over the set caramel for an extra decadent treat.
- Peanut Butter Caramel Apples: Stir in a few tablespoons of peanut butter into the caramel for a nutty twist.
Nutritional Information (per apple, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the size of the apples and the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Fat: High
- Sugar: High
This easy caramel apple recipe using sweetened condensed milk is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious and crowd-pleasing dessert. It's perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or simply a sweet treat any day of the week. The rich, creamy caramel and the satisfying crunch of the apple create a delightful combination that's hard to resist. Enjoy!