Can I make this caramel apple board ahead?

You can prep components ahead, but I don't recommend assembling the full board more than 30 minutes before serving. The apples will start to brown and the caramel can make them soggy. My trick? Slice the apples and store them in lemon water, then drain and dry right before dipping. Have all your toppings prepped and ready to go in little bowls - assembly will be a breeze!

What are the best apples for a dessert board?

Hands down, Granny Smith apples are the winners here! Their tartness cuts through the sweet caramel perfectly, and they stay crisp longer than sweeter varieties. If you must use another type, go for Honeycrisp or Fuji - just avoid mushy apples like Red Delicious. And always choose firm, fresh apples without bruises!

How do I keep the apples from browning?

Don't you hate when beautiful apple slices turn brown? My go-to fix is a quick soak in cold water with a squeeze of lemon juice (about 1 tablespoon per cup of water). Just 5 minutes does the trick! Rinse and pat them super dry before dipping - any extra moisture makes the caramel slide right off. If you're really in a pinch, a sprinkle of Fruit-Fresh works too, but I prefer the natural lemon method.

Caramel Apple Dessert Board That Wows Every Time

Name: Caramel Apple Dessert Board That Wows Every Time
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium apples; 1 cup caramel sauce; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., peanuts, pecans); 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips; 1/4 cup shredded coconut; 1/4 cup crushed cookies or graham crackers; 1/4 cup mini marshmallows; Wooden skewers or popsicle sticks

Description

A delicious and visually appealing dessert board featuring caramel apples, perfect for gatherings or special occasions.

Ingredients

4 medium apples
1 cup caramel sauce
1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., peanuts, pecans)
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
1/4 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup crushed cookies or graham crackers
1/4 cup mini marshmallows
Wooden skewers or popsicle sticks

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Instructions

Wash and dry apples. Cut into slices or wedges.
Insert wooden skewers or popsicle sticks into each apple slice.
Dip each apple slice into caramel sauce, letting excess drip off.
Roll caramel-coated apples in your choice of toppings (nuts, chocolate chips, coconut, etc.).
Arrange decorated apples on a serving board.
Fill remaining space with extra toppings, marshmallows, and crushed cookies.
Serve immediately or chill for 10 minutes to set caramel.

Notes

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for best flavor contrast.
Warm caramel slightly for easier dipping.
Prepare toppings in small bowls for easy assembly.
Serve with extra caramel sauce for drizzling.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American