Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are a simple yet delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of caramel apples with the ease of baking. Perfect for a fall dessert or a party snack, this recipe allows you to customize the toppings for a fun and interactive treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any skill level.
A baked twist on a traditional caramel apple, these rings are tender and full of flavor.
Completely customizable—mix and match toppings to suit everyone’s tastes.
Great for sharing at gatherings or as a family-friendly dessert project.
Requires minimal cleanup thanks to the sheet pan method.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the apples:
6-8 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup chopped nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds) (optional)
¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
¼ cup sprinkles (optional)
For the caramel drizzle (optional):
¼ cup caramel sauce
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Slice the apples into ½-inch-thick rings and remove the cores. I like to leave the skins on for texture, but peeling is an option if preferred. Toss the slices with lemon juice to keep them from browning.
Arrange the apple rings in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.
Warm the caramel sauce slightly in the microwave (about 30 seconds) or on the stovetop over low heat until it’s easy to drizzle.
Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the apple rings.
Sprinkle the caramel-coated apples with your choice of toppings—chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or sprinkles.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the apples are tender and the caramel is bubbling.
While the apples bake, prepare the optional caramel drizzle by combining caramel sauce and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth.
Once baked, let the apples cool slightly before adding the caramel drizzle for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serve warm and enjoy immediately!
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
Fruit swaps: Try pear slices instead of apples for a unique twist.
Dairy-free: Use coconut caramel sauce and coconut cream for the drizzle.
Chocolate lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate instead of caramel.
Healthier option: Skip the extra toppings and use a reduced-sugar caramel sauce.
Spices: Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg over the apple rings before baking for a warm, spiced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
I recommend enjoying these right after baking, but if you have leftovers:
Storage: Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to refresh the texture. Avoid microwaving, as the caramel may overheat and become too sticky.
Related Recipes:
- Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings
- Caramel Apple Bars
- Blueberry Lemon Cookie Bars with White Chocolate Drizzle
FAQs
Can I use pre-sliced apples for this recipe?
Yes, but ensure they are thick enough (about ½ inch) and toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning.
What’s the best type of caramel sauce to use?
I like using a thick, high-quality caramel sauce, but a homemade version works beautifully too.
Can I prepare these in advance?
While they’re best served fresh, you can slice the apples and prepare the toppings ahead of time to save prep time.
What other toppings can I use?
Get creative with crushed cookies, granola, shredded coconut, or even small candies.
Are these suitable for kids to make?
Absolutely! Kids can help with slicing (with supervision), drizzling caramel, and adding toppings, making it a fun family activity.
Conclusion
Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings the comforting flavors of fall to your table. With their customizable toppings and straightforward prep, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in. Whether you stick to the classics or experiment with new flavors, these baked caramel apple rings are sure to be a hit!
📖 Recipe:
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Sheet Pan Caramel Apples
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are a simple, baked twist on the classic caramel apple. Perfect for fall gatherings, these tender apple rings are customizable with toppings like nuts, chocolate chips, and sprinkles. A delightful, family-friendly dessert or snack that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!
Ingredients
For the Apples:
6–8 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
½ cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds) (optional)
¼ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
¼ cup sprinkles (optional)
For the Caramel Drizzle (optional):
¼ cup caramel sauce
2 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Slice apples into ½-inch rings and core them. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Arrange apple rings in a single layer on the prepared pan.
- Warm caramel sauce slightly and drizzle generously over the apple slices.
- Add toppings like nuts, chocolate chips, or sprinkles as desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until apples are tender and caramel bubbles.
- (Optional) Prepare caramel drizzle by heating caramel sauce and cream in a saucepan. Stir until smooth.
- Cool slightly, drizzle with extra caramel if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Choose firmer apple varieties to maintain texture during baking.
Experiment with toppings like granola, shredded coconut, or crushed cookies for unique flavor combinations.
Best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
