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Easy Sheet Pan Caramel Apples for a Crowd Recipe

Easy Sheet Pan Caramel Apples for a Crowd Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 19 reviews

Easy Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are a fun and crowd-pleasing fall dessert that combines tart apple slices with rich homemade caramel and customizable toppings. This no-mess recipe is perfect for parties and gatherings, offering a flat, sliceable alternative to traditional caramel apples.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Apples:

  • 4–5 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp water

For the Caramel:

  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Topping Ideas:

  • Chopped peanuts or pecans
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • Crushed pretzels
  • Shredded coconut
  • Toffee bits
  • Sprinkles
  • Sea salt flakes

Instructions

  1. Prep the Apples: Core and slice the apples into thin wedges. Toss them with lemon juice and water to prevent browning and keep the slices crisp and bright under the caramel coating.
  2. Arrange on Sheet Pan: Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay out the apple slices in a single layer, arranging them close but not overlapping to ensure even coverage and easier slicing later.
  3. Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, unsalted butter, light corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the mixture starts to bubble. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the caramel thickens and becomes glossy.
  4. Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and salt to enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness.
  5. Drizzle Over Apples: Pour the warm caramel evenly over the apple slices using a spoon or measuring cup. Work quickly as the caramel thickens fast, ensuring all slices are well coated.
  6. Add Toppings: Immediately sprinkle your choice of toppings such as chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or crushed pretzels over the warm caramel to allow them to stick properly.
  7. Cool and Slice: Let the sheet pan cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes until the caramel sets. Then slice into squares or bars for easy serving. Serve with napkins or forks for a mess-free treat.

Notes

  • Don’t skip the lemon juice on the apples—it keeps them firm and prevents discoloration under the caramel.
  • Be quick when adding toppings, as once the caramel sets, toppings won’t stick.
  • If the caramel hardens too fast while drizzling, gently warm it up again until pourable.
  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor balance with the sweet caramel.
  • For a full sheet pan, double all ingredient quantities and use a 13×18 inch baking sheet.
  • Substitute light corn syrup with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
  • Cool completely before stacking or storing; use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel apples, sheet pan caramel apples, fall dessert, easy caramel recipe, party dessert

Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/easy-sheet-pan-caramel-apples-for-a-crowd-recipe/