Chocolate Covered Candy Apples

Name: Chocolate Covered Candy Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized apples; 1 cup chocolate chips (milk or dark); 1 cup caramel candies; 1 tablespoon water; Toppings of your choice (crushed nuts, sprinkles, or coconut flakes)

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Inspiration

I absolutely love making Chocolate Covered Candy Apples, especially during the fall season. The combination of sweet, crunchy apples draped in luscious chocolate is simply irresistible. Preparing these apples is not only fun but also creates a beautiful treat for gatherings and parties. I enjoy experimenting with different toppings like crushed nuts and sprinkles, which add extra texture and flavors. Whether you’re serving them for a festive occasion or indulging yourself, these candy apples are sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite!

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:59:34.701Z

When I first made Chocolate Covered Candy Apples, I was amazed by how simple they were to create. The process of dipping the apples into melted chocolate was both therapeutic and exciting. I found that using good-quality chocolate truly elevates the taste, making each bite a delightful experience. One trick I learned is to let the caramel set slightly before dipping in chocolate, ensuring a smooth coating.

Experimenting with different toppings is a highlight for me. I often use crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even coconut flakes to give a personalized touch. This adds not only flavor but also a visual pop that makes these candy apples truly stand out at any occasion. Each bite is a perfect combination of sweet, crunchy, and decadent!

Why You'll Love These Candy Apples
Deliciously sweet and crunchy apples coated in rich chocolate
Customizable with your favorite toppings for a personal touch
Perfect for celebrations, parties, or as a festive snack

Tips for Perfectly Coated Apples

For the best chocolate-coated candy apples, it's crucial to ensure that your apples are completely dry and at room temperature before you start dipping them. This prevents moisture from interfering with the chocolate's ability to stick. I recommend placing your washed apples on a clean towel to dry thoroughly. Allow them to sit out for at least 30 minutes after washing if they were in the fridge beforehand. This small step can significantly enhance the final look and adherence of both the caramel and chocolate layers.

When melting your chocolate, it's essential to do so at a low temperature to avoid burning. I usually microwave the chocolate chips in short bursts, stirring well in between. If the chocolate seizes up or becomes too thick, you can add a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening to restore its fluidity. This will ensure a smooth and glossy finish, which not only looks appealing but also helps the chocolate maintain its structure without cracking when you bite into the candy apple.

Customizing Your Toppings

The beauty of chocolate covered candy apples lies in their versatility. Once you’ve coated your apples, the world of toppings is your oyster! Common choices like crushed nuts provide a delightful crunch, while colorful sprinkles add a festive touch. For a tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut or even crushed freeze-dried fruits for a burst of flavor. Just remember to sprinkle your toppings immediately after dipping in chocolate, as the chocolate will harden quickly.

If you want to make these candy apples a bit more decadent, consider drizzling additional melted chocolate or caramel over the top after you've added your first layer of toppings. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor. Experimenting with flavor combinations, like mixing white chocolate with dark chocolate or trying out flavored chocolates, can elevate your candy apples to gourmet status. Don’t shy away from creativity here!

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth process!

Ingredients

4 medium-sized apples
1 cup chocolate chips (milk or dark)
1 cup caramel candies
1 tablespoon water
Toppings of your choice (crushed nuts, sprinkles, or coconut flakes)

Once everything is prepared, you’re ready to start creating your delicious candy apples!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Chocolate Covered Candy Apples!

Prepare the Apples

Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Remove any stems and insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple.

Melt the Caramel

In a saucepan, combine caramel candies and water. Heat over low heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Dip each apple into the caramel, allowing excess to drip off, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips. Start with 30 seconds, stir, and continue in 15-second intervals until completely melted.

Coat the Apples with Chocolate

Dip each caramel-coated apple into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Sprinkle with your desired toppings immediately after coating.

Set and Serve

Let the chocolate set at room temperature. For faster setting, place them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before serving.

Your delicious Chocolate Covered Candy Apples are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Make sure to keep the chocolates warm until you're ready to dip the apples to ensure a smooth coating.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Chocolate covered candy apples are best enjoyed fresh but can be made ahead of time. If you're prepping for a party, you can coat the apples up to a day in advance. Store them in the fridge, layered between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. It's important to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, be aware that the apple may start to soften over time, which can affect the crunch factor. For longer storage, consider freezing the coated apples, but do so without the toppings, as they may not freeze well. Just remember to allow them to thaw in the fridge to prevent condensation from making them soggy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your caramel doesn’t coat the apple smoothly, it may be due to overheating or moisture in the mixture. Keep the heat low and stir consistently until the caramel is fully melted and glossy. If it does thicken too much, adding a touch more water and reheating gently can help restore the right consistency for dipping.

On the chocolate side, if it becomes too thick to dip after melting, reintroducing a small amount of oil can help. Additionally, if you notice your chocolate starts to clump or seize while dipping, try warming it slightly in the microwave again in short bursts while stirring. Avoid adding liquid ingredients to melted chocolate, as it can cause it to seize. Maintaining control over your melting process is key to achieving that smooth, luscious finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fruit?

Absolutely! Strawberries, bananas, and even tangerines work beautifully with the chocolate coating.

→ How long do these candy apples last?

They are best enjoyed within 3 days but can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate and vegan caramel options to suit your dietary preferences.

→ What kind of chocolate should I use?

I recommend using good-quality chocolate for the best flavor. You can choose between milk, dark, or even white chocolate.