The Best Caramel Apple Dip Recipe
Introduction
This homemade caramel apple dip is rich, creamy, and perfectly sweet—an irresistible treat for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a delicious snack. It pairs wonderfully with crisp apple slices and is surprisingly simple to make from scratch.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine the water and light brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, whisking often until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Step 2: Cut the unsalted butter into smaller pieces and add it to the pan. Whisk until the butter melts and the mixture becomes smooth.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the caramel thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan easily. This should take about 10 minutes.
- Step 4: Whisk in the heavy cream and sea salt until fully combined. Bring the mixture to a boil once more and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 5: Pour the caramel apple dip into a glass dish or jar. Allow it to cool completely before serving. The caramel will be slightly runny warm but will thicken as it cools.
Tips & Variations
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches about 235°F (soft ball stage) for the perfect consistency.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and cream with coconut oil and full-fat coconut milk.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced twist to your caramel dip.
Storage
Store leftover caramel apple dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring often until smooth.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this caramel dip ahead of time?
Yes, this dip can be made up to a week in advance and kept refrigerated. Just reheat gently before serving to restore its creamy texture.
What is the best type of apple to serve with this caramel dip?
Firm and tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady work best, as their crispness and slight acidity balance the sweetness of the caramel beautifully.
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The Best Caramel Apple Dip Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x
Description
This best caramel apple dip is a rich, creamy sauce made from brown sugar, butter, and cream, perfect for dipping fresh apples. Its smooth texture and deep caramel flavor make it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Caramel Apple Dip Ingredients
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Dissolve Sugar: In a heavy bottomed pan, combine water and light brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, whisking frequently, until the sugar dissolves completely and forms a syrup.
- Add Butter: Cut the unsalted butter into smaller pieces and add it to the pan. Whisk continuously until the butter melts fully and the mixture is smooth.
- Cook Caramel: Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until thickened and it pulls away from the pan sides easily.
- Incorporate Cream and Salt: Slowly whisk in heavy cream and sea salt until well combined. Bring it back to a gentle boil for 1 to 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Add Vanilla: Whisk in the pure vanilla extract until fully blended. Pour the caramel dip into a glass dish or jar and allow it to cool completely. The dip will thicken as it cools.
Notes
- Use a heavy bottomed pan to prevent burning the sugar.
- Stir frequently when the mixture is boiling to avoid crystallization.
- The dip can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week; rewarm gently before serving.
- This caramel dip pairs wonderfully with crisp apple slices or other fruits like pears and bananas.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and heavy cream with vegan alternatives.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert Dip
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: caramel apple dip, caramel sauce, apple dessert dip, sweet dip, easy caramel recipe
