Caramel apples are already a fall classic, but most caramel is made with artificial vanilla flavoring, which flattens out next to a tart apple. Real vanilla extract, especially one with warm, spiced notes, rounds the caramel out instead of just sweetening it.
Ingredients (Makes 6 Apples)
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well), washed and dried, stems removed
- 6 wooden sticks or skewers
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup heavy cream, warmed
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Ugandan Vanilla Extract
- ½ tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions
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Insert a stick firmly into the top of each apple where the stem was. Set on a parchment-lined tray.
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In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium heat without stirring until it turns a deep amber color, about 8–10 minutes.
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Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the warmed cream (it will bubble vigorously), followed by the butter.
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Once smooth, stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt.
Make It With Real Ugandan Vanilla
Give the caramel a deeper, warmer vanilla character with NY Vanilla Extract. Its rich vanilla profile pairs naturally with caramel and tart apples without overpowering the dessert.
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Let the caramel cool for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened but still pourable.
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Dip each apple into the caramel, turning to coat evenly, then set back on the parchment to set.
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Chill for 20–30 minutes before serving.
Why This Vanilla Pairs Well Here
Ugandan vanilla has a floral, slightly woody character with a hint of clove, which plays nicely against the deep caramel and tart apple without competing with the warm spice notes already in the dish. NY Vanilla_ The Caramel Apple U…
A Quick Note on Cooking the Caramel
Resist stirring the sugar as it cooks; swirling the pan gently is enough. Stirring can cause it to crystallize instead of turning smooth and amber. NY Vanilla_ The Caramel Apple U…
More Vanilla Desserts to Try
If you enjoyed the combination of vanilla and fall fruit, try these NY Vanilla recipes next:
→ Vanilla Bean Pear Crisp Recipe — another warm fruit dessert pairing real vanilla with seasonal fruit.
→ Vanilla Bean Rice Pudding Recipe — a creamy vanilla dessert that can also be served with caramelized apples.
Explore Vanilla Ingredients
Looking for more vanilla options for baking and desserts? Explore NY Vanilla's Liquid Vanilla Extract collection.
→ Shop Liquid Vanilla Extracts
