Homemade Vegan Caramel Apples

ByRuth Grindeland September 12, 2021March 14, 2024 March 14, 2024

Make homemade vegan caramel apples with this recipe and step-by-step guide. Enjoy a vegan caramel sauce that complements crisp apples, embodying the essence of cozy autumn tastes.

Caramel dripping off an aple into a soucepan.

What are the Best Apples to Use?

The most popular choice for caramel apples is the Granny Smith green apples. These apples are known for their tartness and crisp texture, which contrasts well with the sweet caramel coating. The firmness of Granny Smith apples makes them easy to work and keep for several days.

Other great tart apple options include the Honeycrisp or Pink Lady. Both apples maintain their crunch after being coated in caramel.

When selecting an apple, look for small to medium in size, even, and similarly shaped; they should also be firm and without bruising or nicks.

Several green apples with sticks. The apple in the front is in focus.

Ingredients

Apples: Select your favorite apple variety for caramel apples. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady are easy to find and excellent options.
Coconut Milk: Use full-fat canned coconut milk
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is the base sweetener for the caramel. It adds richness and depth of flavor. Vegan caramel is much lighter than traditional caramel. For this reason, I recommend using dark brown sugar for a darker color.
Corn Syrup: Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization in caramel and is necessary for the caramel to stick to the apple
Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the caramel.

See the recipe card for the complete list and measurements.

Step by Step Instructions

Step One: Prepare the Apples:

Wash and dry the apples thoroughly.
Remove the stems.
Insert wooden sticks into the stem ends of the apples. Set them aside.
Tip: Flip the apple upside down and tap the stick using the counter.

All the ingredients in a saucepan, blending together.

Step Two: Combine the Ingredients:

Combine the brown sugar, coconut milk, vegan butter, corn syrup, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat.
Stir gently until the mixture starts to boil. Once the butter is melted, do not stir.

Step Three: Cook the Caramel:

Let the caramel bubble undisturbed until the temperature reaches between 235°F – 240°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the caramel thicken for 10 -15 minutes before moving to the next step.

Step Four: Dip the Apples

Tile the saucepan to create a well of caramel. Dip the apple into the caramel and swirl the apple around. Lift and let the excess caramel drip off.
Place the apple on the baking sheet. Repeat with the other apples.

Apples with Crunch Berry, Oreo and Strawberry Crumble.

Step Three: Add Toppings (Optional)

While the caramel is still sticky, roll the apple in your desired toppings.
If the toppings are falling off, press them into the apple.

Several caramel apples drying on a tray.

Step Four: Set and Enjoy

Let the caramel-coated apples sit for about 30 minutes until they cool and harden.
Once they are set, you can enjoy them!

What Kinds Of Toppings Can I Roll My Apples in?

I always have fun with Toppings. There are so many great flavors, and creativity brings an element of surprise. If you are making the apples for someone else, keep in mind what their favorite flavors are. It will personalize the gift and show just how much you care.

Topping	Description
Chopped Nuts	Walnuts, almonds, pecans, or peanuts.
Dark Chocolate	Melt vegan dark chocolate and dip for a chocolate layer or drizzle for a dramatic look.
Candy	Gummy bears, licorice, or other favorites.
Crushed Pretzels	Sweet and salty combo for a unique taste.
Crushed Cookies	Oreos or graham crackers.
Potato Chips	Salty chips crunched up pairs perfectly with sweet caramel.
Sea Salt	A pinch of sea salt adds richness to the caramel, bringing out the flavor.
Mini Chocolate Chips	Dark or semi-sweet for a chocolatey twist.
Sprinkles	It adds color and is fun for a festive look. Use fall or Halloween sprinkles.

Five caramel apples. The apple in the forefront has potato chips in the caramel.

Pro-Tips

Candy Thermometer – While you do not need a candy thermometer, I strongly recommend using one.

Cleaning – Fill the saucepan you used halfway with hot water. Place all the utensils in the water and bring the water to a soft boil. After that, pour the water out and wipe everything clean. So easy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to use corn syrup?

Yes, you can omit the corn syrup. However, the corn syrup helps the caramel stick to the apple, and I strongly recommend using it.

How do I store caramel apples?

Store caramel apples by individually wrapping them in wax paper or plastic wrap. Place in an airtight container or resealable bags. Store in the refrigerator for up to two days.