The delightful combination of caramel and apples is synonymous with cozy fall desserts. From crisps to pies, these caramel-apple desserts will satisfy your sweet tooth and get you in the autumn spirit. Let’s dive into 16 irresistible caramel-apple treats you need to try this season.
1. Easy Caramel Apple Pie Bars
These caramel apple pie bars simplify the traditional pie recipe while retaining all the flavor. With Granny Smith apples and a buttery crust, they are the perfect handheld fall treat.
2. Caramel-Apple Crisp
This caramel-apple crisp offers a comforting mix of caramel, apples, and crunchy oats. It’s an easy dessert that pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can enjoy this delicious crisp after indulging in a healthy breakfast like these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Pancakes.
3. Caramel Apple Cheesecake
For a more indulgent option, try this caramel apple cheesecake. Use canned apple pie filling or fresh apples for a fresher flavor. Don’t forget to top it with caramel sauce for an extra decadent touch! If you’re into cheesecakes, you might also like this Classic Chocolate Chip Cheesecake.
4. Heavenly ‘Apple of My Thigh’ Dessert
With just five ingredients, this caramel dip with cream cheese and English toffee is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for dipping freshly sliced apples.
5. Caramel Apple Bundt® Cake
This Bundt® cake is packed with caramel and apple flavors. Each slice reveals tender apples encased in a moist cake, topped with a rich caramel glaze.
6. Caramel Apple Dip
If you love the taste of caramel apples but don’t want the mess, this caramel apple dip is perfect for you. It’s easy to make and ideal for parties.
7. Caramelized Maple Apple Pie with Candied Bacon Crumble
Take your apple pie to the next level with candied bacon and maple caramel sauce. This savory-sweet twist on a classic dessert is sure to impress your guests.
8. Brown Butter Apple Crisp Bars
These brown butter apple crisp bars offer the richness of brown butter combined with apples and oats. They’re perfect for a snack or dessert.
9. Caramel Apple Cookies
These caramel apple cookies combine the flavors of apple, caramel, and nuts into a soft, chewy bite-sized treat. A dash of applesauce makes them incredibly moist and delicious.
10. Disappearing Caramel Apple Bars
As their name suggests, these disappearing caramel apple bars are always a hit at gatherings. They’re topped with a gooey caramel drizzle and are best served chilled.
11. Chef John’s Caramel Apple Pie
This caramel apple pie is a classic dessert, with caramel sauce poured over the apples before baking. The result is a rich and flavorful pie that’s hard to resist.
12. Best Ever Caramel Apple Crisp
The best ever caramel apple crisp is a favorite at fall tailgates and family gatherings. It’s a large-batch dessert perfect for feeding a crowd.
13. Apple Harvest Pound Cake with Caramel Glaze
This apple harvest pound cake combines apples and walnuts with a sweet caramel glaze. It’s a great dessert to serve with coffee or tea.
14. Caramel for Apples
Making your own caramel for apples is easier than you think! With just three ingredients, you can create a smooth, luscious caramel perfect for dipping apples or topping desserts.
15. Caramel-Apple Upside-Down Cake
This upside-down cake features caramelized apples instead of pineapple, creating a rich, fall-inspired dessert.
16. Gramma’s Apple Bread Pudding
This apple bread pudding is the ultimate comfort food, combining brown sugar, apples, and a hint of caramel. Top it off with warm caramel sauce for a truly indulgent treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
A: Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly if you’re short on time. However, homemade caramel sauce will give you a richer flavor.
Q: What types of apples are best for caramel-apple desserts?
A: Granny Smith apples are a popular choice due to their tartness, which complements the sweetness of caramel. Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are also great options.
Q: How do I store caramel-apple desserts?
A: Most caramel-apple desserts can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure to let them cool before storing to avoid sogginess.
Q: Can I make caramel-apple desserts ahead of time?
A: Yes! Many of these desserts, like caramel apple pie bars and apple crisp, can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Q: How do I prevent caramel from hardening?
A: Adding a little corn syrup to your caramel sauce can help prevent it from crystallizing, keeping it soft and smooth.
Enjoy experimenting with these caramel-apple desserts, perfect for any fall gathering. Whether you’re making a simple apple crisp or an elaborate pie, the combination of tart apples and rich caramel is sure to please! Happy baking!