Sweet & Sizzling Sheet Pan Caramel Apples Recipe

Sweet autumn evenings call for delightful sheet pan caramel apples that burst with warmth and nostalgia.

Crisp, seasonal apples transform into a decadent dessert when coated with rich, golden caramel.

Each bite promises a perfect balance of tart fruit and sugary glaze.

The simple sheet pan method ensures effortless preparation and minimal cleanup.

Drizzle extra caramel for added indulgence, creating a dessert that wows with minimal effort.

Serve these irresistible treats warm and watch smiles spread across eager faces.

Get ready to become the dessert hero at your next gathering.

Sheet Pan Caramel Apples: Fall in Every Bite

• Forget complicated caramel apple techniques with this sheet pan method that transforms slicing and drizzling into a quick, stress-free experience.
• Sprinkle different toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or crushed cookies to make each batch unique and personalized for every taste preference.
• Perfect for involving children in the kitchen, allowing them to help slice apples and select fun toppings while creating delicious memories together.
• Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and family celebrations where you want a simple yet impressive sweet treat that looks and tastes amazing.

What You’ll Need for Sheet Pan Caramel Apples

• Apples: Fresh, crisp apples that hold their shape well during baking and provide a sweet-tart base for the caramel.

• Caramel Bits, Heavy Cream: A smooth, rich mixture that creates a luxurious drizzle over the apple slices.

• Chopped Nuts, Chocolate Chips, Sprinkles, Crushed Cookies: Crunchy and sweet additions that enhance the flavor and texture of the sheet pan caramel apples.

• Nonstick Cooking Spray: Helps prevent the apple slices from sticking to the baking sheet.

Tools to Make Caramel Apples Easy

• Rimmed Baking Sheet: Large, flat pan with raised edges perfect for spreading apple slices evenly.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: Sturdy container for melting caramel smoothly without splattering.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing apples into consistent, even pieces.
• Nonstick Cooking Spray: Helps prevent apple slices from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Stirring Spoon: Wooden or silicone spoon for mixing caramel and ensuring even melting.

How to Assemble Sheet Pan Caramel Apples

Step 1: Warm Up the Baking Surface

Grab a large rimmed baking sheet and give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticking.

Step 2: Slice and Arrange Apples

Wash your apples and slice them into approximately 12 even pieces, keeping the skin on for extra flavor and nutrition.

Spread the apple slices in a single, neat layer across the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Create Dreamy Caramel Sauce

• Caramel bits
• Heavy cream

Zap the mixture in the microwave on high, stirring every 30 seconds until the caramel transforms into a silky, smooth sauce that’ll make your mouth water.

Step 4: Shower Apples with Caramel

Drizzle the luscious, golden caramel sauce generously over the apple slices, ensuring each piece gets a delicious coating.

Step 5: Customize with Crunchy Toppings

Sprinkle on your favorite toppings – think chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or crushed cookies – to add extra texture and flavor.

Step 6: Let Cool and Serve

Allow the caramel apples to cool slightly so the sauce can set, then dive in and enjoy the sweet, gooey goodness.

Step 7: Preserve the Deliciousness

If you have any leftovers (unlikely!), cover and store in the refrigerator.

These are best enjoyed on the same day for maximum flavor and texture.

Tips for Smooth Caramel Coating

• Cut apples uniformly to ensure even caramel coating and consistent baking time.
• Use parchment paper or a silicone mat for easier cleanup and preventing apple slices from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Experiment with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
• Enjoy immediately after cooling for the best taste and crisp apple texture.
• Warm briefly in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore caramel's gooey consistency if needed.

Sheet Pan Apple Flavor Options

• Vegan Caramel Delight: Replace caramel bits with coconut cream and maple syrup, using dairy-free alternatives for a plant-based version.
• Nutty Crunch Edition: Sprinkle chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts over caramel-coated apple slices for extra texture and protein.
• Chocolate Lover's Variation: Drizzle melted dark chocolate or white chocolate chips alongside caramel for a rich, decadent flavor profile.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute caramel with sugar-free caramel sauce or use stevia-based caramel for diabetic-friendly preparation.

Serving Caramel Apples at Events

• Sweet Breakfast Pairing: Serve alongside warm cinnamon toast or fluffy pancakes for a delightful morning treat that combines fruity and caramel flavors.
• Dessert Centerpiece: Create an elegant dessert platter by arranging caramel apple slices with vanilla ice cream, chopped nuts, and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
• Afternoon Snack Option: Pack these caramel apple slices in lunchboxes or enjoy as a quick energy-boosting snack during mid-afternoon breaks, perfect for kids and adults.
• Party Platter Inspiration: Arrange slices on a decorative wooden board with different toppings like chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers, and sprinkles for a festive gathering display.

Storing Sheet Pan Apples

• Transfer leftover apple slices to an airtight container, ensuring they're in a single layer to prevent sticking. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Place cooled caramel apple slices on a parchment-lined tray, freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Keep frozen for up to 1 month.
• Warm gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or restore crispness by briefly placing in a preheated 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji. Choose firm apples that hold their shape well during baking.

• Do I need to core the apples before slicing?

No, simply slice the apples into about 12 even pieces. The peel helps hold the slices together during baking.

• What toppings work best with caramel apples?

Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers, and shredded coconut are excellent options. Mix and match for different flavor combinations.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids will love helping drizzle caramel and adding their favorite toppings. It’s a fun, interactive dessert that the whole family can enjoy together.

Sheet Pan Caramel Apples Recipe

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4.8 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sheet pan caramel apples deliver a nostalgic twist on classic fair treats. Crisp autumn apples get lavishly coated in smooth caramel, offering simple elegance you’ll savor with delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 4 medium Granny Smith apples, sliced (about 48 slices total)
• 1 11-ounce (311-gram) bag caramel bits

Dairy and Cream:

• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) heavy cream

Cooking and Optional Toppings:

• Nonstick cooking spray
• Optional toppings: mini chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, toffee bits, crushed pretzels, M&M’s, chopped candy bars

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Instructions

1. Warm the sheet pan in the oven at 400°F and coat with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Carefully cut apples into approximately 12 uniform wedges, maintaining the skin for added texture and nutrition.
3. Spread apple slices evenly across the preheated baking sheet, ensuring no overlap for consistent caramelization.
4. Combine caramel bits and cream in a microwave-safe container, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until achieving a silky, glossy consistency.
5. Generously cascade the molten caramel across apple slices, creating an even, glistening coating.
6. Embellish with preferred garnishes like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or toasted coconut for additional crunch and flavor complexity.
7. Allow the caramel-coated apples to rest and slightly solidify for 5-7 minutes, maximizing flavor absorption.
8. For optimal taste and texture, consume within several hours of preparation, storing any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

Notes

• Choose firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor balance.
• Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Experiment with different toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut for variety.
• Serve immediately for the most enjoyable caramel consistency and apple crispness.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg