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Apple Slices with Caramel

Featured in: Sweet Crunch

Enjoy fresh, thinly sliced apples lightly tossed with lemon juice to prevent browning, arranged around a luscious caramel dip. The dip is made by gently cooking brown sugar, butter, heavy cream, and a hint of vanilla until thickened and smooth. This combination creates a perfect balance of tart and sweet, ideal for gatherings or a quick indulgence. Simple to prepare with basic kitchen tools, it offers a refreshing and satisfying flavor experience.

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Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:22:00 GMT
Fresh apple slices with a warm, glossy caramel dip center for easy snacking. Save
Fresh apple slices with a warm, glossy caramel dip center for easy snacking. | kookycrunch.com

A beautiful, crowd-pleasing fruit platter featuring crisp apple slices arranged around a rich, homemade caramel dip.

This recipe has become a family favorite for gatherings and holiday treats, always earning compliments for its simplicity and delicious taste.

Ingredients

  • Fruit: 4 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala), cored and sliced, 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
  • Caramel Dip: 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream, 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the apples:
Slice the apples into thin wedges and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning. Arrange the slices in a circular pattern on a serving platter, leaving space in the center for the dip.
Make the caramel dip:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Continue to cook for 23 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
Cool the caramel:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the caramel cool for 5 minutes it will thicken slightly as it cools.
Serve:
Pour the caramel dip into a small bowl and place it in the center of the apple arrangement. Serve immediately, using apple slices to dip into the caramel.
A close-up of the bright, colorful Apple Slices with Caramel Dip ready for sharing. Save
A close-up of the bright, colorful Apple Slices with Caramel Dip ready for sharing. | kookycrunch.com

Our family enjoys this platter as a light dessert after dinner, making it a sweet end to any meal.

Notes

For extra flair, sprinkle chopped nuts or sea salt over the caramel dip. Substitute pears or other firm fruits if desired. Store any leftover caramel in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Tips for Storage

Keep apple slices fresh by tossing them in lemon juice and storing in an airtight container in the fridge. Caramel dip can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (butter, cream). Apples are generally allergen-free but check caramel ingredients and labels for cross-contamination if serving to people with allergies.

Homemade Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: a decadent dessert featuring sweet apples and rich sauce. Save
Homemade Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: a decadent dessert featuring sweet apples and rich sauce. | kookycrunch.com

This easy recipe adds elegance to any occasion and is sure to impress with minimal effort required.

Recipe FAQ

→ How can I prevent apple slices from browning?

Toss the apple slices with lemon juice immediately after slicing to slow down oxidation and keep them fresh-looking.

→ What types of apples work best for this dish?

Firm and crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala hold up well and complement the caramel dip’s sweetness.

→ Can I substitute the caramel dip with another ingredient?

Yes, honey, nut butters, or yogurt-based dips can serve as alternatives depending on your taste preferences.

→ How do I achieve a smooth and thick caramel dip?

Cook brown sugar, butter, and cream over medium heat while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, then add vanilla off the heat.

→ Is it possible to prepare the dip ahead of time?

Yes, cool the caramel completely, cover, and refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving to restore smoothness.

Apple Slices with Caramel

Crisp apple wedges paired with rich, creamy caramel for a flavorful snack or dessert option.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
10 min
Complete duration
25 min
Created by Jake Peterson


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 6 Portions

Diet considerations Meat-free, No gluten

Components

Fruit

01 4 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala), cored and sliced
02 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Caramel Dip

01 ½ cup brown sugar (100 g)
02 ¼ cup heavy cream (60 ml)
03 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30 g)
04 ⅛ teaspoon salt
05 ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

Phase 01

Prepare Apples: Slice the apples into thin wedges and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning. Arrange the slices in a circular pattern on a serving platter, leaving space in the center for the dip.

Phase 02

Make Caramel Dip: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture gently boils, then continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring frequently until slightly thickened.

Phase 03

Finish Caramel: Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let the caramel cool for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Phase 04

Assemble: Pour the caramel dip into a small bowl and place it in the center of the apple slices arranged on the platter.

Phase 05

Serve: Serve immediately, using apple slices to dip into the caramel.

Necessary tools

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Serving platter
  • Small bowl

Allergy details

Review each component carefully for potential allergens and consult with healthcare professionals if you're uncertain about any ingredient.
  • Contains dairy (butter, heavy cream)

Nutrient breakdown (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 210
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Proteins: 1 g