Mini Caramel Apples for Fall Game Days

As the weather cools and football season kicks off, nothing says fall quite like a sweet, sticky caramel apple. These mini caramel apples are the perfect treat for game days—bite-sized, easy to eat, and packed with autumn flavor. They’re an ideal addition to your game day spread, bringing all the flavors of fall together in a fun, portable treat.

Ingredients:

• 6 small apples (like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp)

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as peanuts, walnuts, or pecans)

• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

• 1/4 cup sprinkles or crushed candy (optional)

• 6 wooden skewers or lollipop sticks

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples:

• Wash the apples thoroughly and dry them with a clean towel.
• Cut each apple into 4-6 wedges (depending on the size of the apples).
• Insert a wooden skewer or lollipop stick into the center of each apple wedge.

1. Melt the Caramel:

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the caramel sauce, stirring occasionally, until smooth and warm. Alternatively, you can microwave the caramel sauce in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until melted.

1. Dip the Apples:

• Dip each apple wedge into the warm caramel sauce, coating the apple well. Allow any excess caramel to drip off.

1. Add Toppings:

• While the caramel is still warm, roll the dipped apples in chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or crushed candy to add texture and flavor. If you prefer a simpler approach, you can just sprinkle a little sea salt on top for a sweet-salty combination.

1. Cool and Serve:

• Place the dipped apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray and let them cool for 10-15 minutes to allow the caramel to set. If you’re in a hurry, pop them in the fridge for a quicker set.
• Once cooled, serve the mini caramel apples on a platter or dish for easy snacking.

Tips:

• Make it a DIY Station: If you’re hosting a game day party, set up a DIY mini caramel apple station with various toppings (like sprinkles, crushed cookies, and shredded coconut) for guests to customize their own apples.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the apple wedges and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day before dipping. Just be sure to keep them chilled to prevent browning.

 A Fall Treat That’s Perfect for Game Days

These mini caramel apples are the ideal fall treat for game days. They’re easy to eat, customizable, and packed with all the flavors of fall. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the game with friends, or just enjoying a cozy afternoon, these bite-sized caramel apples will be a hit. So, grab some apples, get dipping, and enjoy this sweet, seasonal treat!