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–+ servings
Gourmet Turtle Caramel Apples 1

Gourmet Turtle Caramel Apples

These decadent treats combine the crisp tartness of fresh Granny Smith apples with buttery caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy pecans for an extraordinary dessert that's perfect for autumn gatherings or homemade gifts.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Setting Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6 apples
Calories 620 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Wooden or Lollipop Sticks
  • Medium Saucepan
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Zip-top Bag (for drizzle)

Ingredients
  

For the Base

  • 6 medium Granny Smith apples firm and unblemished
  • 6 wooden craft sticks or sturdy lollipop sticks
  • 1 pound high-quality caramel candies unwrapped
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream substitute: full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free option
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

For the Turtle Topping

  • 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips substitute: dark chocolate for less sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
  • 2 cups pecans toasted and roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for extra decoration (optional)

For Drizzle (Optional)

  • 4 ounces white chocolate
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Instructions
 

  • Thoroughly wash and dry your apples, removing any wax coating. Insert wooden sticks firmly into the apple cores through the stem end.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray. Arrange all your toppings in separate bowls.
  • In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Stir continuously until melted and smooth, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.
  • Working quickly while the caramel is still hot, dip each apple into the caramel, rotating to coat completely. Allow excess to drip back into the pan and scrape the bottom against the edge. Place on prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
  • Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl at 50% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
  • Remove the caramel-covered apples from the refrigerator. Dip the bottom third of each apple into the melted chocolate, then immediately press chopped pecans onto the chocolate layer. For more decadence, spoon additional chocolate over the tops and sprinkle with remaining pecans and mini chocolate chips.
  • For the optional drizzle, melt white chocolate with coconut oil using the same method as before. Transfer to a small zip-top bag, snip a tiny corner, and drizzle decoratively over the apples.
  • Return the completed apples to the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to set completely. For best flavor, remove from refrigeration 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For easier eating, slice the apples into wedges just before serving.
Store completed apples in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap individually in parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Ensure apples are at room temperature before dipping for optimal caramel adhesion.
For a nut-free version, substitute pretzel pieces, toasted oats, or sunflower seeds.

Nutrition

Calories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 74gProtein: 7gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 220mgFiber: 7gSugar: 58g
Keyword Caramel Apples, Turtle Candy, Gourmet Apples, Fall Dessert, Chocolate Covered Apples
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