Caramel Apples For Weddings: A Step-By-Step Guide

Caramel apples are a fun, tasty treat that can be made and decorated in a variety of ways. They are a great addition to any wedding, especially those taking place in the fall. Making caramel apples can be a fun activity for guests, or they can be given out as wedding favours. This paragraph will discuss how to make wedding caramel apples, including the ingredients and methods required, as well as offering some tips and tricks for ensuring the perfect caramel apple.

Choosing the right apples

Variety:

Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for caramel apples due to their tart flavour, which pairs well with the sweet and rich caramel. Their crisp texture also provides a nice contrast to the sticky caramel. However, you can also choose other varieties such as Honeycrisp apples or your favourite type of apple to personalise your treat.

Quality:

When selecting your apples, it is important to choose those that are fresh and firm. Avoid apples with soft spots or bruises, as they may not hold up well during the dipping process or provide the best texture and taste. Look for apples that are free of blemishes and have a bright, vibrant colour.

Size:

Consider the size of the apples, especially if you are making caramel apples for a large group. Larger apples may be more impressive, but they will also require more caramel and toppings. Smaller apples can be a good option if you are making a large quantity, as they are easier to dip and will result in more servings.

Preparation:

Before dipping your apples in caramel, it is important to prepare them properly. Wash and dry the apples thoroughly to remove any wax or coatings that may prevent the caramel from adhering. You can also try dipping the apples in hot water for a few seconds to remove any remaining wax, which will help the caramel stick better.

Storing:

If you are not using the apples immediately, store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to dip them. This will help keep them crisp and fresh. It is best to use apples that are cold when dipping them in caramel, so they can help cool the caramel to the perfect temperature for setting.

By carefully selecting and preparing your apples, you can ensure that your wedding caramel apples not only taste delicious but also look beautiful and are a joy for your guests to bite into!

Preparing the apples

To begin, gather 6-7 apples, preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, and refrigerate them until they are cold. The number of apples may vary depending on their size. It is important to choose apples that are crisp and juicy, without any soft spots or bruises.

Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil. While the water is heating up, remove the stems from the apples and insert a popsicle stick about 3/4 of the way into each apple. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, turn off the heat. Carefully submerge each apple in the hot water for 15-20 seconds while holding onto the popsicle stick. This process will help remove any wax on the apples, ensuring that the caramel adheres properly. Place the apples on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

At this point, the apples should be just warm to the touch. Use a paper towel to thoroughly dry them before transferring them back to the refrigerator until the caramel is ready for dipping. Removing the wax and drying the apples are crucial steps to ensure that the caramel adheres well to the apples.

As you prepare the caramel, keep the apples chilled to maintain their crispness. It is important to work quickly once the caramel is ready, as it sets very fast.

Making the caramel

Ingredients

• 6-7 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are recommended)
• 1/2 cup (115 grams) water
• 1 1/3 cups (255 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons (255 grams) heavy cream, cold
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Utensils

• A light-coloured stainless steel pot with a heavy-duty base
• A candy thermometer
• A silicone or stainless steel whisk
• A silicone pastry brush
• Popsicle sticks
• A parchment paper-lined baking tray

Method

Firstly, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Then, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the stems from the apples and insert a popsicle stick about 3/4 down into each apple. Turn off the heat and submerge each apple in the water for 15-20 seconds. This will remove any wax on the apples, helping the caramel to adhere. Place the apples on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Dry the apples with a paper towel and store them in the fridge.

Next, make the caramel. Combine the water, sugar, and salt in the pot over medium heat. Stir frequently with a whisk until the sugar has dissolved completely. The mixture should begin to boil after approximately 4 minutes. Once it has come to a boil, attach a candy thermometer to the pan, ensuring it is not touching the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture simmer without stirring until it turns dark brown and the temperature reaches 315°F (this should take around 8-10 minutes).

Now, carefully add the cold heavy cream to the pan. The mixture will start to pop and bubble. Stir constantly with a silicone whisk until the caramel reaches 250°F (about 7-9 minutes). Remove the caramel from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture will bubble slightly when the vanilla is added. Be careful not to stir too much to avoid creating air bubbles in the caramel. Transfer the caramel to a heat-resistant bowl and let it cool for 5-10 minutes, or until it is just warm.

Tips

• If you start to notice crystallised bits forming on the sides of your saucepan, brush them away with a wet pastry brush to avoid them ending up on your caramel apples.
• If your caramel seizes, crystallises, or becomes grainy, you can usually rescue it by melting the chunks of hardened caramel over very low heat and then straining the sauce through a fine-mesh strainer.
• If your caramel apples have bubbles, you can prevent this by soaking the apples in hot water. You can also try to avoid stirring the caramel too vigorously.
• If you still have some bubbles, you can always coat the apple in chocolate or toppings to hide them!

Dipping the apples

Preparing the Apples:

Before you begin dipping, it is crucial to prepare your apples properly. Start by selecting the right apples. Granny Smith apples, with their tart flavour, pair perfectly with the sweet and rich caramel. Honeycrisp apples are also an excellent choice. Ensure the apples are firm and free from any soft spots or bruises. Refrigerate the apples until they are cold.

Next, remove any wax from the apples. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and briefly submerge each apple for 15-20 seconds. This process will remove any wax residue, allowing the caramel to adhere better to the apples. Use a slotted spoon to handle the apples, and then set them aside to cool completely, which should take about 30 minutes.

Once the apples are cool, it's time to insert the sticks. Use wooden chopsticks, popsicle sticks, or bamboo sticks, inserting them about 3/4 of the way into the apples through the base. Place the apples on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and set them aside until the caramel is ready.

Now for the main event—dipping! Start by preparing your desired toppings and having them ready in bowls. You'll want to work quickly once the apples are dipped, as the caramel sets fast. Chopped nuts, sprinkles, crushed Oreos, or chocolate chips all make excellent toppings.

When you're ready to dip, grab your caramel and reheat it in the microwave for about 10 seconds if it has started to thicken. Holding the stick, quickly dip each apple into the warm caramel, tilting and swirling the apple to ensure all sides are coated. Allow any excess caramel to drip off by gently scraping the bottom of the apple against the edge of the bowl.

If you want to add toppings, do so immediately after dipping each apple, as the caramel will set quickly. Roll the freshly dipped apple in your desired toppings, ensuring an even coating. Place the finished apple back on the parchment-lined baking sheet to fully set.

If you plan to dip your apples in chocolate, it is best to wait until the caramel has fully set, which should take about 10 minutes. You can then drizzle or dip the apples in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

Storing and Serving:

Once all your apples are dipped and decorated, they will need time to set completely. Place them in the refrigerator, individually wrapped in plastic wrap, and let them sit for at least an hour. These caramel apples can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week, retaining their freshness and taste. When serving, allow the apples to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying.

Creating wedding caramel apples is a fun and rewarding experience. With careful preparation and a bit of practice, you'll be able to wow your guests with delicious and visually appealing treats. Enjoy the process, and don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings and decorations!

Adding toppings

Choosing Toppings:

When it comes to selecting toppings for your wedding caramel apples, the possibilities are endless. You can go with traditional options like chopped nuts (pecans or peanuts), or get creative with crushed Oreos, sprinkles, or chocolate chips. If you want to add a touch of elegance, consider using white chocolate or drizzling your apples with melted peanut butter. For a festive touch, use colourful sprinkles or candy pieces. You can also offer a variety of toppings to let your guests customise their own apples.

Preparing Toppings:

Before you begin dipping your apples, make sure to prepare your toppings. Chop any nuts or candy bars you plan to use, and have them ready in separate bowls. If you're using sprinkles, chocolate chips, or crushed Oreos, make sure they are easily accessible and ready to be rolled onto the apples. You can also mix and match toppings to create unique combinations. For example, combine chopped nuts with sprinkles or chocolate chips with crushed Oreos.

Once you have dipped your apples in caramel, work quickly to add your desired toppings. The caramel sets fast, so it's important to act promptly. You can roll the apples in the toppings, using a gentle hand to ensure the toppings stick to the caramel. Another option is to sprinkle the toppings onto the apples, focusing on getting an even distribution all over the apple. If you want to get creative, you can use a spoon to drizzle melted chocolate or peanut butter over the caramel apple, creating a delicious and decorative effect.

Presentation:

After you've added your toppings, place the finished apples on a cake stand or platter to create a stunning display. This can be a beautiful and unique addition to your wedding dessert table or a charming favour for your guests. You can also package the caramel apples in individual boxes or wrap them in cellophane bags with ribbons to match your wedding colours. This will make for a memorable and tasty treat that your guests are sure to enjoy.

With these instructions and ideas, you're well on your way to creating delicious and visually appealing wedding caramel apples. Get creative, have fun, and don't be afraid to experiment with different toppings to find the perfect combination for your special day.

Frequently asked questions