Introduction

As the crisp autumn air sets in and the leaves turn golden, few desserts capture the season like caramel apples. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood memories or starting new traditions, these Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are a guaranteed hit. With the perfect balance of sweet caramel, melted chocolate, and tart apple, this treat brings warmth and indulgence to any fall gathering.

A Bit of History

Caramel apples first appeared in the early 1900s when candy maker Dan Walker created them for a special event. Over time, they became a hallmark of Halloween and fall festivities, with endless variations like chocolate drizzle, nuts, and sprinkles. This sheet pan version takes the beloved but often messy treat and transforms it into a family-friendly dessert that’s easy to serve.

Ingredients

• 4 large crisp apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala)

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• ½ cup chocolate chips (milk or dark)

• ¼ cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds, optional)

• ¼ cup sprinkles (optional)

• Sea salt, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the apples
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Core and slice apples into wedges, leaving the skin on. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined sheet pan.

2. Warm the caramel
   If using store-bought, heat caramel in a saucepan or microwave until smooth. For homemade, melt 1 cup brown sugar with ½ cup butter, then stir in ¼ cup heavy cream and cook until thickened.

3. Caramelize the apples
   Drizzle warm caramel sauce evenly over the apple slices.

4. Melt the chocolate
   In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle over caramel apples.

5. Add toppings
   Sprinkle with nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt, if desired.

6. Bake
   Bake for 10–12 minutes, until apples are tender but not mushy and the caramel is bubbly.

7. Serve
   Allow to cool slightly before serving. Transfer to a platter or individual plates for easy sharing.

Why This Works

This method softens the apples slightly while keeping their crisp bite. The caramel and chocolate meld together in the oven, creating a gooey, irresistible topping. Optional toppings add crunch, color, and flavor, making this recipe endlessly customizable.

Conclusion

Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are more than a dessert—they’re a celebration of fall. Perfect for cozy nights, parties, or a fun family activity, they combine sweet, tart, crunchy, and creamy in every bite. It’s the joy of caramel apples without the sticky mess.