Caramel Apple Dip

Don’t you just love the nostalgia of a good Caramel Apple Dip? And this is not just your ordinary dip! It’s a blend of buttery caramel, tangy apple slices, and that slight crunch of peanuts – an absolute fall favorite in my home.

Whenever I serve it, whether at a casual gathering or a quiet evening at home, it always brings a smile to people’s faces. It reminds them of simpler times when they were kids at the fair.

Ingredients

• Caramels 
• Sweetened Condensed Milk 
• Butter or margarine
• Milk 
• Apple slices 
• Crushed peanuts

Substitutions

Milk: You can use fat-free sweetened condensed milk, but why? Let’s face it: this recipe has nothing outside of the apples that is healthy. You really don’t want to eat this sweet treat if calorie or carb counts are an issue!

Butter: Margarine is also an acceptable substitute, but for the same reasons listed above, just why?

Caramels: I use the old fashioned Kraft caramels in the wrapper. Other caramels can be used, but they may be runnnier.

Apples: While apples are the classic choice, feel free to get creative! Pears, bananas, and even berries can work instead. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a tropical twist with pineapple?

Crushed Peanuts: If you’re not a fan of peanuts or have a nut allergy in the house, you could substitute them with crushed pretzels for the same crunchy feel. Or, if you’re a chocolate lover like me, mini chocolate chips or crushed toffee bits could add an exciting sweetness to each bite!

How to make Caramel Apple Dip

1. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and set it to low heat.
2. Cover and cook for 1 to 2 hours, stirring every 15 minutes until the caramels have melted, making sure to stir the corners of the crock to prevent any burnt spots.
3. To achieve a thinner dip, gradually add regular milk, two tablespoons at a time. Mix well after each spoonful until you get the desired consistency.
4. Serve the dish warm from the slow cooker, accompanied by slices of apples, marshmallows, and crushed peanuts.

What Can I Serve With this Dip Besides Fresh Apples?

We use all kinds of things for dipping into caramel sauce, and we serve it over ice cream as well.

Here some of our favorite dippers:

• Pretzels
• Cinnamon pita chips – Stacey’s are best!  
• Vanilla Wafers
• Shortbread Cookies
• Marshmallows
• Graham Crackers

Recipe Tips

• If you want a thinner dip, add some milk or heavy cream, two tablespoons at a time, and mix well. 
• I serve mine with cocktail peanuts run through the food processor. You can always chop them up with a knife. 
• Caramel Apple Dip works best when served from the slow cooker set to the warm setting.  This dip will get thick quickly without heat.
• You can also try lightly salting your dip. It might sound strange, but a pinch of salt can enhance the caramel flavor and create a wonderful sweet-salty balance.

Storage

Leftover Caramel Apple Dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to stir it well before serving, as the ingredients can separate a bit in the fridge.

You can also freeze this recipe because Caramel Apple Dip freezes beautifully. Simply place the cooled dip in a freezer-friendly container or zip-top bag and freeze it for up to three months.

When you’re ready to serve it again, defrost it in your refrigerator overnight. Then warm it up on the stovetop over low heat or in your slow cooker, stirring well to bring back that smooth, creamy goodness.

How Do You Heat Caramel Without Burning It?

You can make this dip on a stovetop; just use very low heat. Caramel of any kind can turn on you fast.

Even in the slow cooker, you need to watch this dip, as the corners of the crock can turn dark.

If you catch it quickly enough, it will not affect the final product, but if you walk away for too long, the whole mess will taste burnt.

Burnt caramel is not pleasant, no matter what you do with it.

FAQs

Can I Make Caramel Apple Dip Without a Slow Cooker?

If you don’t own a slow cooker, you can prepare the Caramel Apple Dip on the stovetop. Use a double boiler to heat the ingredients slowly and avoid burning the caramel. 

Remember, patience is key – keep the heat low and stir often for best results.

What Types of Apples Work Best for This Dip?

Tart apples like Granny Smith are a popular choice because they balance the sweetness of the caramel beautifully. However, you can use any variety of apples you prefer. 

Can I Use Other Types of Nuts Instead of Peanuts?

If peanuts aren’t your cup of tea, swap them out for another type of nut. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans would all be delicious choices. 

Just chop them finely to get that wonderful crunch in every bite.

How Do I Know When the Dip is Ready?

You’ll know the dip is ready when you have melted the caramel, and the dip is smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick for your liking, add a little milk to thin it out.

Can I Serve This Dip Cold?

This dip is best served warm, right out of the slow cooker. However, if you’ve stored it in the fridge, a quick reheat on the stovetop can bring it back to its creamy, delicious state. 

Remember to stir it well while warming it to ensure an even consistency.

MORE FALL DESSERT RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE

Mini Blueberry Pies

Roly Pollies

Frosted Pumpkin Cookies

Chocolate Bacon Bourbon Balls

Pumpkin Roll

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