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Crisp apple, thick caramel and sour candy crunch: these sour caramel apple slices are an easy, sliced version of the fall favorite. You get the sweet, tangy, crunchy bite of a caramel apple without a stick, a sticky face or a hard bite. They take about 20 minutes, and they’re perfect for Halloween parties, game day and after-school snacks.
why make this recipe
Sliced apples are easier to dip, easier to share and much less messy than whole caramel apples.
- Easy to eat: bite-size slices, with no stick and no giant bite.
- Sweet and sour: creamy caramel, tart apple and chewy sour candy in one bite.
- No baking: just a microwave and a tray.
- Party-ready: great for Halloween, fall festivals, tailgates and potlucks.
how to make sour caramel apple slices
Ingredients
For the apples
- 3 medium Granny Smith apples
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the caramel
- 1 bag (11 ounces) soft caramel candies, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
For the sour topping
- 1 cup chopped sour gummy candy (like Sour Patch Kids), cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts (optional)
Directions
- Prep the pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash the apples: Scrub the apples under hot water and dry them well to remove the waxy coating, which keeps caramel from sticking.
- Slice: Cut each apple into 8 wedges and remove the core and seeds.
- Add lemon: Toss the slices gently with the lemon juice, then pat them completely dry with paper towels.
- Chill the slices: Place the apples in the fridge or freezer for 10 to 15 minutes. Cold slices help the caramel set faster.
- Melt the caramel: Add the caramel candies and cream to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth and thick.
- Dip the apples: Dip each slice about halfway into the warm caramel, letting the extra drip off.
- Add the crunch: Press the caramel side into the chopped sour candy, and into peanuts if using.
- Set: Place each slice on the parchment and refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes, until the caramel firms up.
how to serve sour caramel apple slices
Serve them cold on a platter or in paper cups for a Halloween party. Set out extra caramel for dipping, or pack a few in lunchboxes with a small container of sour candy. They also make a fun topping idea for a fall snack board next to pretzels and nuts.
how to store sour caramel apple slices
These are best eaten the same day. If you have leftovers, store them in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours, with parchment between layers. The apples will brown slightly and the sour candy will soften as it sits.
tips to make sour caramel apple slices
- Dry the apple slices thoroughly. Any moisture makes the caramel slide off.
- Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best crunch and contrast with the sweet caramel.
- Let the melted caramel cool for a minute so it’s thick, not runny.
- Chop the sour candy small and add it right after dipping, while the caramel is still tacky.
- Add the candy shortly before serving if you want the sour pieces to stay chewy.
variation
- Chocolate drizzle: drizzle melted chocolate over the set caramel.
- Extra crunch: roll the dipped slices in crushed pretzels or chopped nuts.
- Sour sugar: toss the finished slices in a little sour candy dust or citric acid sugar.
- Different apples: use Honeycrisp for a sweeter, juicier slice.
- Whole apple dip: serve the slices with a warm caramel fondue bowl on the side.
FAQs
How do you make caramel stick to apple slices?
Wash off the wax, dry the slices thoroughly and chill them before dipping. Cold, dry apples hold the caramel best.
What are the best apples for caramel apple slices?
Granny Smith apples are the classic choice because they’re firm and tart. Honeycrisp is a good sweeter option.
How do you keep apple slices from browning?
Toss them gently in a little lemon juice, then pat them dry before dipping.
Can I make sour caramel apple slices ahead of time?
They’re best the same day. You can slice and chill the apples ahead, then dip and top them just before serving.
What kind of sour candy works best?
Soft sour gummies, like Sour Patch Kids, chop easily and stay chewy. Avoid hard candy, which can be tough to bite.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
You can, but thick caramel works better. Look for a dipping caramel, or use melted soft caramel candies as in this recipe.
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Sour Caramel Apple Slices
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scrub the apples under hot water and dry them well to remove the wax.
- Cut each apple into 8 wedges and remove the core and seeds.
- Toss the slices with the lemon juice and pat completely dry.
- Chill the slices in the fridge or freezer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Microwave the caramels and cream in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth and thick.
- Dip each apple slice about halfway into the caramel and let the excess drip off.
- Press the caramel side into the chopped sour candy and peanuts, if using.
- Set on parchment and refrigerate 10 to 15 minutes until the caramel firms. Serve cold.
