Vegan Caramel Apple Recipe That’s Easy and Delicious

There’s something utterly nostalgic and delightful about biting into a crisp, juicy apple coated in luscious caramel. But for those following a vegan lifestyle, traditional caramel recipes often pose a challenge due to their heavy reliance on dairy.

Fear not! This vegan caramel apple recipe brings you all the gooey sweetness and satisfying crunch without any animal products.

Made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients, this treat is perfect for cozy fall afternoons, festive gatherings, or whenever you crave a sweet indulgence. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, even if you’re new to vegan cooking.

Let’s dive into creating this irresistible dessert that everyone will love, vegan or not!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan caramel apple recipe is a game-changer for anyone who enjoys classic caramel apples but wants to avoid dairy and animal products. The caramel is rich and creamy, made from wholesome ingredients like coconut milk and coconut sugar, which also add a subtle depth of flavor.

The apples stay crisp under the smooth caramel coating, creating a perfect balance of textures.

It’s incredibly versatile too — you can customize toppings to suit your taste, whether you prefer chopped nuts, vegan chocolate drizzle, or even a sprinkle of sea salt. The recipe is also allergy-friendly, free from refined sugar and artificial additives, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought versions.

Perfect for fall parties, Halloween, or just a sweet, guilt-free treat!

Ingredients

• 4 large crisp apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work great)
• 1 cup full-fat canned coconut milk (stirred well before measuring)
• 1 cup coconut sugar or organic brown sugar
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup (or maple syrup for a natural option)
• 1/4 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, vegan chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or sea salt flakes

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Candy thermometer (highly recommended for perfect caramel consistency)
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant silicone spatula
• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• 8 wooden popsicle sticks or skewers
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large bowl for toppings (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the apples: Wash and dry the apples thoroughly to remove any wax or residue. Insert a wooden stick firmly into the stem end of each apple and set them aside on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Make the vegan caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut milk, coconut sugar, corn syrup, and vegan butter. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer.
3. Cook the caramel: Attach the candy thermometer to the saucepan, making sure it doesn’t touch the bottom. Continue to boil the mixture without stirring until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage). This should take about 15-20 minutes. Be patient — this step is crucial for perfect caramel!
4. Remove from heat and add flavor: Once the caramel hits the right temperature, immediately remove the pan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. The caramel will thicken as it cools, so work quickly.
5. Dip the apples: Holding each apple by the stick, dip it into the warm caramel, swirling to coat evenly. Allow any excess caramel to drip back into the pan.
6. Add toppings: If desired, immediately roll or sprinkle the caramel-coated apples with your choice of toppings like chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips.
7. Set the apples: Place the dipped apples back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them cool at room temperature for about 1-2 hours until the caramel hardens.
8. Serve and enjoy: Once set, your vegan caramel apples are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep the caramel firm.

Tips & Variations

“For the creamiest vegan caramel, use full-fat coconut milk and avoid light coconut milk varieties. You can also experiment with maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a natural sweetness, but the caramel may be slightly less chewy.”

• Use different apple varieties: Try a mix of tart and sweet apples like Gala or Pink Lady for varied flavor.
• Salted caramel twist: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel before it sets for a delectable salty-sweet combo.
• Chocolate-dipped: After the caramel sets, dip the apples halfway into melted vegan chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or coconut flakes.
• Nut-free option: Skip the nuts and try crushed vegan cookies or granola for added crunch.
• Extra creamy caramel: Add a tablespoon of almond or cashew butter to the caramel during cooking for richness.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan caramel apples are a perfect standalone treat, but you can also pair them with other vegan desserts for a festive spread. Try serving alongside a scoop of vegan soft serve or a slice of vegetarian date cake for a well-rounded dessert experience.

For a party, arrange the caramel apples on a platter with bowls of extra toppings like crushed vegan cookies, chopped nuts, and shredded coconut, allowing guests to customize their apples. They also make charming gifts when wrapped in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon.

Conclusion

Whipping up these vegan caramel apples is easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely delicious. This recipe proves that you don’t need dairy or animal products to enjoy classic comfort treats with rich, satisfying flavors.

The creamy, slightly salty caramel paired with crisp apples offers a delightful texture contrast that everyone will love. Whether you’re making them for a festive occasion or just a sweet pick-me-up, these vegan caramel apples are a sure crowd-pleaser.

Plus, by making them at home, you can control the ingredients, ensuring a wholesome, natural treat free from preservatives and artificial additives. If you’re interested in more plant-based recipes that bring vibrant flavors to your table, check out other favorites like Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and a Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite!

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