Hello, fall lovers! 🍎 Autumn is here, which means it’s time for one of the most delicious treats of the season: caramel apples on a stick! Making caramel apples is a great family activity, and adding fun designs with toppings makes them even more special. Plus, if you’re in Vermont, you can turn this into a whole day of apple-picking fun! Here’s how to create beautiful and delicious caramel apples, plus a guide on where to find the best apple orchards in Vermont.
How to Make Caramel Apples on a Stick
Ingredients and Supplies You’ll Need:
- Fresh apples (medium-sized and firm)
- Wooden sticks (popsicle sticks work well)
- Caramel candies or caramel sauce
- Heavy cream (to thin the caramel if needed)
- Parchment paper or a lined tray
Toppings for Different Designs:
- Classic Nut Coating: Chopped peanuts, almonds, or pecans
- Candy Drizzle: Melted chocolate (dark, white, or milk) for a decorative drizzle
- Colorful Sprinkles: Fall-themed sprinkles, mini candies, or colored sugar
- Graham Cracker Crunch: Crushed graham crackers for a s’mores-style apple
- Coconut Flakes: Shredded coconut adds a fun texture and taste
- Crushed Cookies: Oreos, ginger snaps, or chocolate chip cookie crumbs
- Pretzel Pieces: Add some crunch with small pieces of pretzels
Steps to Make Your Caramel Apples
- Prepare the Apples: Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Remove any wax by dipping them in hot water for a few seconds and scrubbing lightly. Insert a wooden stick firmly into the top of each apple.
- Melt the Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt caramel candies or caramel sauce with a splash of heavy cream to help it coat the apples smoothly. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- Dip the Apples: Dip each apple into the melted caramel, turning to coat evenly. Hold it up to let any excess caramel drip back into the bowl, then set it on parchment paper.
- Add the Toppings: Before the caramel sets, roll or sprinkle the apples with your desired toppings. For drizzles, wait until the caramel is slightly set, then drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the apple with a spoon or a piping bag.
- Cool and Serve: Let the apples cool on the parchment paper until the caramel is set. You can place them in the fridge for faster setting.
These delicious caramel apples are perfect for enjoying at home or gifting to friends and family. Each one will have its own unique design!
Where to Pick Apples in Vermont
Now that you know how to make caramel apples, why not go apple picking to get the freshest apples? Vermont is filled with beautiful orchards where you can pick apples, enjoy fresh cider, and take in the gorgeous fall scenery. Here are some of the best spots:
1. Shelburne Orchards (Shelburne, VT)
- What to Expect: This orchard has beautiful lake views and a variety of apple types to choose from. They offer fresh apple cider, cider donuts, and even apple brandy for adults.
- Family Fun: Kids will love the friendly farm atmosphere and exploring the orchard. Plus, you can often find caramel apples ready-made for inspiration!
2. Champlain Orchards (Shoreham, VT)
- What to Expect: Champlain Orchards is known for its eco-friendly practices and has over 100 varieties of apples! They also have fresh cider, cider donuts, and a farm store.
- Family Fun: Enjoy hayrides, visit the farm animals, and pick apples for your caramel apple project at home.
3. Cold Hollow Cider Mill (Waterbury Center, VT)
- What to Expect: While not strictly a pick-your-own orchard, Cold Hollow Cider Mill is famous for its cider donuts, fresh cider, and a large variety of apple treats.
- Family Fun: Stop by for a demonstration on how cider is made and pick up some apples to take home for your caramel apples. Don’t forget to try their legendary cider donuts!
4. Scott Farm Orchard (Dummerston, VT)
- What to Expect: Scott Farm Orchard offers many heirloom apple varieties, perfect for a unique caramel apple experience. This historic orchard is picturesque and peaceful.
- Family Fun: Stroll through the scenic orchard, pick unique apple