Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are a creative and convenient way to enjoy all the nostalgic flavors of traditional caramel apples—without the sticky mess or individual dipping. Sliced apples are laid out on a sheet pan, drizzled with gooey caramel, and topped with your favorite add-ins like chocolate, nuts, and candy bits. It’s like a caramel apple platter you can pull apart and share! This easy dessert is perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or any time you’re craving that apple-caramel combo. It’s kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and totally customizable to match your favorite flavors. Plus, no skewers required!
What Makes This Dessert Special?
Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are a game-changer when it comes to serving a crowd. Instead of preparing individual apples on sticks, this method turns the classic into a beautiful, edible “apple nacho” board. It’s less messy, easier to eat, and incredibly fun to decorate. You can mix and match toppings for everyone’s taste—think crushed Oreos, chopped nuts, mini M&Ms, or white chocolate drizzle. It’s like a DIY caramel apple bar, but better!
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for melting caramel)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 servings
Ingredients
- 4–5 crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 (11 oz) bag soft caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips or melted chocolate
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (pecans, peanuts, or almonds)
- ¼ cup crushed cookies (Oreos or graham crackers)
- ¼ cup mini marshmallows or toffee bits
- Optional: sprinkles, shredded coconut, sea salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Apples
Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Slice them into ¼-inch thick wedges, removing any seeds or cores. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Melt the Caramel
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Stir continuously until smooth and fully melted, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to overheat or burn the caramel.
3. Drizzle with Caramel
Using a spoon or fork, drizzle the melted caramel over the apple slices. Try to spread it out evenly so each piece gets some of that golden gooey goodness.
4. Add the Toppings
While the caramel is still warm, sprinkle your desired toppings over the apples. This could include chocolate chips, nuts, cookie crumbs, candy bits, or marshmallows.
5. Chill and Serve
Let the sheet pan sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then transfer to the fridge for 10–15 minutes to help the caramel set slightly. Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to serve.
Variations
- S’mores Style: Add mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers, then drizzle with melted chocolate.
- Peanut Butter Caramel: Stir a tablespoon of peanut butter into the caramel before drizzling.
- Halloween Mix: Use candy corn, chopped chocolate bars, and orange/black sprinkles.
- Apple Nachos: Layer with a zigzag of melted white chocolate and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a more classic flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small saucepan
- Spatula or spoon for drizzling
- Knife and cutting board
- Serving tongs (optional)
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: ~210
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 24g
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Best eaten the same day, as the apples may brown slightly over time.
- Serving Tip: If preparing in advance, toss apple slices in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Make Ahead: Prep all toppings and melt the caramel just before assembling to keep everything fresh and crisp.
My Cooking Experience
This is one of my favorite “last-minute” desserts, especially during the fall. It comes together so quickly, and the toppings make it feel festive and fun. I’ve made it with everything from chopped peanut butter cups to crushed pretzels—it’s such a great way to get creative. Plus, the cleanup is minimal, and the kids love helping decorate. It’s a family go-to in our autumn rotation.
Conclusion
Sheet Pan Caramel Apples bring all the cozy flavors of fall into one easy-to-make, fun-to-eat dessert. Perfect for sharing, decorating, and customizing, it’s a great alternative to traditional caramel apples. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating your family, this dessert is guaranteed to be a hit—crisp, sweet, and irresistibly sticky in all the right ways.
Sheet Pan Caramel Apples
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Slice them into ¼-inch thick wedges, removing any seeds or cores. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Stir continuously until smooth and fully melted, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to overheat or burn the caramel.
- Using a spoon or fork, drizzle the melted caramel over the apple slices. Try to spread it out evenly so each piece gets some of that golden gooey goodness.
- While the caramel is still warm, sprinkle your desired toppings over the apples. This could include chocolate chips, nuts, cookie crumbs, candy bits, or marshmallows.
- Let the sheet pan sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then transfer to the fridge for 10–15 minutes to help the caramel set slightly. Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to serve.
Notes
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Best eaten the same day, as the apples may brown slightly over time.
- Serving Tip: If preparing in advance, toss apple slices in a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
