Caramel Apple Nachos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a must-try because it’s:

• Mess-free and shareable enjoy the sweet, indulgent flavors of caramel apples without the hassle.
• Great for entertaining simple to prep and perfect for fall gatherings or game nights.
• Versatile and customizable swap or add toppings to suit any taste from salty to sweet.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Granny Smith apples
• Honeycrisp apples
• Salted butter
• Brown sugar
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Corn syrup
• Vanilla extract
• White chocolate chips
• Granola bar (chopped)
• Pretzels (crushed)
• Lemon

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. Wash, core, and slice apples. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
3. Melt butter in a saucepan; stir in brown sugar, condensed milk, and corn syrup. Cook until caramel bubbles, then remove from heat.
4. Stir in vanilla extract, then allow caramel to cool slightly.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
6.  Arrange apple slices on a platter, alternating colors for visual appeal.
7. Drizzle with homemade caramel and melted white chocolate.
8. Sprinkle with chopped granola bar and crushed pretzels. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Here are a few fun swaps to make these your own:

• Candy lovers: Add chopped peanut butter cups or crushed candy bars.
• Savory twist: Top with crushed potato chips for a sweet-salty combo.
• Warm spice: Sprinkle ground cinnamon to evoke apple-pie flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one day. Store extra caramel in a separate sealed container for several weeks.
• Reheating: Warm the caramel in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until it’s drizzly again.

FAQs

1. How far in advance can I prep the apple slices?

Toss apple slices in a salt water solution (1 teaspoon salt per 2 quarts water) for 5 minutes, then drain. Stored in an airtight bag, they can stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

2. Can I use store-bought caramel instead of making my own?

Yes! Melt caramel bits with a few drops of water in the microwave for a quick shortcut.

3. Can I refrigerate the dish before serving?

It’s best served fresh to preserve the crispness and texture of the apples and toppings. Leftovers can be refrigerated, but textures may change.

4. How can I prevent apples from browning?

Toss slices with lemon juice or soak briefly in salt water to keep them looking fresh.

5. Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely use any apples you like. Granny Smith provides a tart contrast, while red varieties add sweetness and color.

6. What toppings work best besides granola and pretzels?

Try nuts, coconut, toffee bits, marshmallows, whipped cream cheese, or syrup the sky’s the limit.

7. Can I keep caramel sauce in the fridge?

Yes, in an airtight container, caramel can keep for several weeks. Reheat before using.

8. Are these good for a party?

Definitely! They’re great for gatherings and can even be set up as a DIY apple nacho bar where guests assemble their own.

9. How do caramel apple nachos compare to traditional caramel apples?

They offer the same flavor without biting into a whole apple less messy, easier to share, and more customizable.

10. What makes this dessert viral or trending?

The ease of preparation, visual appeal, and customizable toppings make it a hit every fall Real Simple even calls it “the viral treat” of the season.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Nachos deliver all the gooey, crunchy delight of caramel apples in a streamlined, easy-to-share format. Ready in just 15 minutes, they’re ideal for fall get-togethers, family movie nights, or a cozy treat. With endless topping possibilities, you can tailor them to any flavor or event. Can’t wait to hear how you top yours!

Print