Double Dipped Apples: A Fair Favorite Made at Home

Every fall, as a child, the county fair was the event. The thrilling rides, the prize-winning livestock, the aroma of fried everything… but my absolute favorite was always the candied apples. Not just any candied apple, mind you. It had to be the kind with the perfect snap of caramel, followed by a thick layer of chocolate, and a final flourish of crunchy sprinkles. It was the height of autumnal indulgence, a treat I looked forward to all year, and now I make them at home every year.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 dipped apples
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 4 large tart apples, room temperature (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 (12 ounce) package caramels, unwrapped
• 1 lb melting chocolate or 1 lb chocolate chips
• 4 candy sticks
• 1 cup candy sprinkles or 1 cup nuts, chopped

Equipment Needed

• Microwave-safe bowl
• Wax paper
• Double boiler or heat-safe bowl and saucepan
• Spoon
• Candy thermometer (optional, but recommended for melting chocolate)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your apples. Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Ensuring they are at room temperature helps the caramel adhere properly.

2. Unwrap all of the caramels from the 12-ounce package. You can find these in the produce section of most grocery stores, often marketed for caramel apples. Divide the caramel into sections of two sheets each. Then wrap each apple in two sheets of caramel. This ensures even coverage and a good base for the chocolate.

3. Carefully insert a candy stick firmly into the core of each apple. Push it in deep enough to provide a secure hold, but not so far that it comes out the other side.

4. Place the prepared apples on the wax paper sheets that came with the caramel package. This will prevent them from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

5. Now, melt the chocolate. There are two methods you can use: the microwave or a double boiler.

   • Microwave Method: Place the chocolate (melting chocolate or chocolate chips) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize.
   • Double Boiler Method: Fill a saucepan with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heat-safe bowl on top of the saucepan, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water. Add the chocolate to the bowl and stir occasionally until it is completely melted and smooth. A candy thermometer can be helpful here; aim for a temperature around 115°F (46°C).

6. Once the chocolate is melted, dip each apple completely into the melted chocolate, rotating it to ensure it’s fully coated. Use a spoon to help if needed, ensuring every part of the caramel is covered.

7. Carefully lift the apple from the chocolate and allow any excess chocolate to drip off. You can gently tap the apple against the side of the bowl to help remove excess chocolate.

8. Immediately after dipping in chocolate, dip the apple into your chosen topping: candy sprinkles or chopped nuts. Again, rotate the apple to ensure even coverage. You can also gently press the apple into a plate of sprinkles or nuts.

9. Place the double-dipped apples back on the wax paper and allow them to cool completely. The chocolate will set firm as it cools. This usually takes about 30 minutes at room temperature, or you can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Temperature is key: Make sure your apples are at room temperature. This will help the caramel adhere better and prevent the chocolate from cracking due to a sudden temperature change.
• Melt chocolate carefully: Don’t overheat the chocolate! Burnt or seized chocolate is unusable. Low and slow is the best approach, regardless of whether you’re using a microwave or a double boiler.
• Prevent caramel slipping: If you’re having trouble with the caramel slipping off the apple, chill the apples in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before dipping them in caramel.
• Customizing chocolate: Add a teaspoon of vegetable oil to the melted chocolate for a smoother, glossier finish. You can also add a dash of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
• Quick Setting: For faster setting of the chocolate, place the dipped apples on a wax paper-lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for 10-15 minutes after each dipping step.
• Make Ahead Tip: These apples can be made a day ahead. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your double-dipped apples immediately for the best flavor and texture. They are perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or just as a special treat.

To store leftover apples, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days. Be aware that the caramel may soften slightly in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze the dipped apples, but the texture may change upon thawing.

To serve, let the chilled apples sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.

Nutritional Information

Please note that the following values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	550 kcal	28%
Total Fat	30g	46%
Saturated Fat	18g	90%
Cholesterol	5mg	2%
Sodium	150mg	7%
Total Carbohydrate	70g	23%
Dietary Fiber	5g	20%
Sugars	55g	–
Protein	5g	10%

Variations & Substitutions

• Chocolate Variations: Use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolate for a different twist.
• Nut-Free: Substitute the nuts with crushed pretzels, crushed cookies, or even dried fruit for a nut-free option.
• Vegan: Use vegan caramels and dairy-free chocolate to make this treat vegan-friendly.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili powder to the melted chocolate for a spicy kick.
• Seasonal Sprinkles: Use holiday-themed sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Caramel Alternatives: You can use a homemade caramel sauce instead of the packaged caramels, but this requires more time and effort.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Why is my caramel sliding off the apples?
A: The apples might be too cold. Make sure they are at room temperature, and dry them thoroughly before wrapping them in caramel.

Q: Can I use different types of apples?
A: Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith are a classic choice, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji.

Q: What if my chocolate seizes while melting?
A: Try stirring in a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening to help smooth it out. Avoid getting any water or steam into the chocolate, as this is a common cause of seizing.

Q: How do I prevent the candy sticks from falling out?
A: Insert the sticks deep into the core of the apple, but not all the way through. A secure grip is essential.

Q: Can I freeze these double dipped apples?
A: Yes, you can, but be aware that the texture of the chocolate and caramel may change slightly upon thawing. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap before freezing.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’re equipped with this simple yet impressive recipe, why not create your own double dipped apple masterpiece? Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and flavors to create your own signature treat. They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, and I guarantee they’ll be a hit. Happy dipping!