Pin A beautiful, crowd-pleasing fruit platter featuring crisp apple slices arranged around a rich, homemade caramel dip.
This recipe quickly became a favorite at family gatherings because of its simplicity and delicious flavor combination.
Ingredients
- 4 large apples: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala, cored and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: to prevent browning
- 1/2 cup (100 g) brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the apples:
- Slice the apples into thin wedges and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning. Arrange the slices in a circular pattern on a serving platter leaving space in the center for the dip.
- Make the caramel dip:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat combine the brown sugar heavy cream butter and salt. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Continue to cook for 23 minutes stirring frequently until slightly thickened.
- Finish the caramel:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the caramel cool for 5 minutes it will thicken slightly as it cools.
- Assemble:
- Pour the caramel dip into a small bowl and place it in the center of the apple arrangement.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately using apple slices to dip into the caramel.
Pin 
My kids love gathering around this platter especially during holiday parties.
Notes
For extra flair sprinkle chopped nuts or sea salt over the caramel dip. Substitute pears or other firm fruits if desired.
Required Tools
Sharp knife Cutting board Small saucepan Wooden spoon or spatula Serving platter Small bowl
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter cream). Apples are generally allergen-free but check caramel ingredients and labels for cross-contamination if serving to people with allergies.
Pin This simple dessert is a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness for any occasion.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I keep apple slices from browning?
Toss the slices in lemon juice immediately after cutting to prevent oxidation and maintain their bright color.
- → Can I use different types of apples for this dish?
Yes, varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala work well, providing a balance of tartness and sweetness.
- → Is it possible to substitute the caramel dip with a dairy-free alternative?
Absolutely. You can replace butter and cream with coconut milk and dairy-free margarine to make a vegan-friendly caramel dip.
- → What is the best way to thicken the caramel dip?
Cooking the mixture over medium heat while stirring frequently helps it thicken gently without burning.
- → How should leftovers be stored for best quality?
Store leftover caramel in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving. Keep apple slices separate to avoid sogginess.