Apple Slices Caramel Dip

Featured in: Sweet Cozy Treats

Crisp apple slices are tossed with lemon juice to keep them fresh and arranged in a circular pattern. The smooth caramel dip is crafted by cooking brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and vanilla until silky and slightly thickened. Served together, the sweet and tart flavors balance perfectly, making for a simple yet elegant snack or dessert option that is both vegetarian and gluten-free if gluten-free caramel is used.

Updated on Fri, 12 Dec 2025 10:53:00 GMT
Fresh, juicy apple slices surrounding warm, glistening caramel dip for serving. Save
Fresh, juicy apple slices surrounding warm, glistening caramel dip for serving. | forkta.com

A beautiful, crowd-pleasing fruit platter featuring crisp apple slices arranged around a rich, homemade caramel dip.

This recipe has been a favorite at our family gatherings, delighting everyone with its simplicity and flavor.

Ingredients

  • Fruit: 4 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala), cored and sliced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent browning)
  • Caramel Dip: 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar; 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream; 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the apples:
Slice the apples into thin wedges and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning. Arrange the slices in a circular pattern on a serving platter, leaving space in the center for the dip.
Make the caramel dip:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Continue to cook for 2&3 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
Cool the caramel:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the caramel cool for 5 minutes it will thicken slightly as it cools.
Assemble:
Pour the caramel dip into a small bowl and place it in the center of the apple arrangement.
Serve:
Serve immediately, using apple slices to dip into the caramel.
Vibrant arrangement of apple slices showcasing a decadent, homemade Caramel Dip center. Save
Vibrant arrangement of apple slices showcasing a decadent, homemade Caramel Dip center. | forkta.com

Making this dish always brings back warm memories of sharing sweet treats with loved ones.

Notes

For extra flair, sprinkle chopped nuts or sea salt over the caramel dip. Substitute pears or other firm fruits if desired.

Required Tools

Sharp knife, cutting board, small saucepan, wooden spoon or spatula, serving platter, small bowl

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (butter, cream). Apples are generally allergen-free, but check caramel ingredients and labels for cross-contamination if serving to people with allergies.

Easy-to-make Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: A perfect appetizer, snack, or dessert option. Save
Easy-to-make Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: A perfect appetizer, snack, or dessert option. | forkta.com

Enjoy the perfect balance of tart apples and sweet caramel in every bite.

Recipe FAQs

How do I prevent apple slices from browning?

Toss apple slices with lemon juice immediately after cutting to slow oxidation and maintain their fresh appearance.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, firm fruits like pears can be substituted while maintaining a similar texture and flavor balance with the caramel dip.

What is the best way to store leftover caramel?

Store caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat it before serving to restore smoothness.

How thick should the caramel dip be?

Cook the caramel until it lightly thickens, allowing it to coat the apple slices easily without being too runny or too stiff.

Are there any common allergens in this dish?

The dip contains dairy ingredients such as butter and heavy cream. Always check ingredient labels for potential cross-contaminants.

Apple Slices Caramel Dip

Crisp apples paired with smooth caramel dip create a sweet and tangy crowd favorite.

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
25 min
Created by Mia Parker


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 6 Portions

Diet Preferences Meat-Free, Gluten-Free

What You'll Need

Fruit

01 4 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala), cored and sliced
02 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Caramel Dip

01 1/2 cup brown sugar (100 g)
02 1/4 cup heavy cream (60 ml)
03 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (30 g)
04 1/8 teaspoon salt
05 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How to Make It

Step 01

Prepare Apple Slices: Slice apples into thin wedges, toss with lemon juice to prevent browning, and arrange in a circular pattern on a serving platter, reserving center space for the dip.

Step 02

Cook Caramel Mixture: Combine brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until mixture reaches a gentle boil, then simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 03

Finish Caramel Dip: Remove saucepan from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and allow to cool for 5 minutes until the caramel thickens slightly.

Step 04

Assemble and Serve: Transfer caramel dip into a small bowl and place it centrally on the apple arrangement. Serve immediately, dipping apple slices into the caramel.

Equipment Needed

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Small saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Serving platter
  • Small bowl

Allergy Details

Check every item for allergens, and check with your doctor if you’re unsure.
  • Contains dairy from butter and heavy cream.

Nutrition Per Serving

For informational purposes; please consult your healthcare professional.
  • Calories: 210
  • Total Fat: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Protein: 1 g