Get ready to transform ordinary apples into a decadent dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds! Our Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are not just a recipe; they're a culinary adventure that combines the rustic charm of baked fruit with the luxurious richness of homemade caramel. Imagine golden, tender apple slices dripping with a silky, amber-hued caramel sauce that's been carefully crafted to perfection – all prepared with minimal effort on a single sheet pan. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a cozy autumn dessert, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and tantalize your taste buds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples, cored and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Wash and core the apples. Slice each apple into approximately 1/2-inch thick wedges, ensuring relatively uniform thickness for even cooking.
- Arrange apple slices in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan, spreading them out to ensure they are not overcrowded.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar and heat over medium-high heat. Allow sugar to melt without stirring, gently swirling the pan occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
- Cook sugar until it turns a deep amber color, approximately 8-10 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Carefully add butter to the caramelized sugar, whisking constantly. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so use caution.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream while continuing to whisk. The mixture will temporarily seize but will smooth out as you continue stirring.
- Remove caramel from heat and stir in vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon until fully incorporated.
- Pour the warm caramel sauce evenly over the arranged apple slices on the sheet pan, ensuring each slice gets coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until apples are tender and caramel is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving. The caramel will thicken as it cools.
- Serve warm as a dessert, potentially accompanied by vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn that hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet caramel.
- Caramel Technique: When making caramel, resist the urge to stir. Instead, gently swirl the pan to ensure even heating and prevent sugar crystallization.
- Watch the Color: Caramel can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Remove from heat when it reaches a deep amber color, typically around 8-10 minutes.
- Safety First: When adding cream to hot caramel, use a long-handled whisk and stand back, as the mixture will bubble and steam intensely.
- Even Coating: Use a spoon or spatula to ensure each apple slice gets an equal amount of caramel sauce for consistent flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience.
- Storage Tip: These caramel apples are best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to restore their warm, gooey texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
