Get ready to transform the classic autumn treat into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe! These Baked Chocolate Caramel Apples are not just a dessert; they're a culinary experience that combines the crisp sweetness of fresh apples with luxurious caramel and rich chocolate. Perfect for fall gatherings, family desserts, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe turns ordinary apples into a gourmet sensation that looks like it came straight from a professional pastry kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Wash the apples thoroughly and dry them completely. Remove the stems and use an apple corer or sharp knife to carefully remove the core from the top of each apple, creating a cavity without piercing the bottom.
- Grease the baking sheet lightly with the tablespoon of butter to prevent the apples from sticking during baking.
- Place the prepared apples standing upright on the buttered baking sheet, ensuring they are stable and won't tip over.
- Warm the caramel sauce in a microwave-safe bowl for 20-30 seconds until it becomes smooth and easily pourable.
- Carefully pour the caramel sauce into the hollowed-out centers of the apples, filling them about halfway.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts inside the caramel-filled cavities for added texture and flavor, if desired.
- Melt the chocolate chips using a double boiler or in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each interval until smooth and fully melted.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the apples, ensuring an even coating that covers most of the apple's surface.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender but not mushy.
- Remove from the oven and let the apples cool for 10 minutes at room temperature to allow the chocolate and caramel to set.
- Transfer the baked chocolate caramel apples to serving plates, and optionally garnish with additional chopped nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
- Serve warm and enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture.
Tips
- Choose firm, fresh apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance.
- Ensure apples are completely dry before adding caramel and chocolate to prevent separation.
- Use a sharp apple corer or paring knife to create clean, even cavities.
- Melt chocolate slowly and carefully to prevent burning - using a double boiler is recommended.
- Don't overfill the apple cavities with caramel to prevent overflow during baking.
- Let the apples cool slightly before serving to allow chocolate and caramel to set properly.
- For a professional touch, use high-quality chocolate and caramel for maximum flavor.
- Experiment with different nut toppings like pecans, almonds, or pistachios for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 10mg
