🍎 Sheet Pan Caramel Apples – The Easy Fall Dessert Everyone Loves
When fall rolls in and the air turns crisp, nothing says autumn magic quite like caramel apples. But if you’ve ever tried dipping whole apples in caramel, you know it can get messy — fast! That’s why we’re obsessed with Sheet Pan Caramel Apples, a genius twist that’s easier, shareable, and even more delicious than the classic fair treat.
These sweet treats take everything you love about traditional caramel apples — the sticky caramel, crisp fruit, and crunchy toppings — and transform them into bite-sized, snackable slices baked together on one sheet pan. It’s caramel apple meets dessert pizza, and your fall gatherings will never be the same.
🍁 Why You’ll Love Sheet Pan Caramel Apples
- Easy to assemble: No dipping, skewering, or waiting for caramel to set!
- Perfect for parties: Great for crowds — just slice and serve.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings — nuts, candies, or drizzles.
- Less mess: Simple cleanup thanks to parchment paper.
- Kid-friendly: Fun to make together as a family.
This recipe is all about taking the classic caramel apple flavor and turning it into a gorgeous, golden, crowd-pleasing sheet pan dessert.
🍏 Ingredients You’ll Need
Base Ingredients
- 4 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the parchment)
For the Caramel
- 1 (11 oz) bag chewy caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Toppings (customize to your liking!)
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts or pecans
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp crushed pretzels
- 2 tbsp shredded coconut
- 2 tbsp candy sprinkles or mini M&Ms
- Optional: Melted dark or white chocolate for drizzling
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat and prepare:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with butter to prevent sticking. - Slice the apples:
Core and slice apples into ¼-inch thick rounds. Arrange them neatly on the prepared sheet pan in slightly overlapping rows. Brush with lemon juice to keep them from browning. - Make the caramel:
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine caramels and heavy cream. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. - Pour the caramel:
Drizzle the warm caramel evenly over the apple slices using a spoon or small pitcher. You can use as much or as little as you like — go generous for gooey bites! - Add toppings:
Sprinkle nuts, chocolate chips, pretzels, and candies over the caramel layer. This is where the fun begins — let kids help decorate! - Bake briefly (optional):
For a warm, melty finish, bake for 5 minutes at 375°F. If you prefer a crispier bite, skip baking and chill instead. - Cool and serve:
Allow to cool for 10–15 minutes until the caramel sets slightly. Slice into squares or lift pieces off with a spatula. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Sheet Pan Caramel Apples
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line sheet pan with parchment paper. Grease lightly with butter.
- Slice apples into ¼-inch rounds, core removed. Arrange on pan and brush with lemon juice.
- Melt caramels with heavy cream over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Stir in vanilla.
- Drizzle caramel over apples, then add toppings.
- Bake 5 minutes for warm caramel or skip baking for a chilled version.
- Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm or room temperature.
Notes
🍬 Tips for Perfect Sheet Pan Caramel Apples
- Use firm apples so they hold their shape when baked. Granny Smith adds a nice tart contrast to the sweet caramel.
- Avoid watery toppings like fresh fruit — they can make the caramel slide off.
- For a cleaner look: Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes before slicing.
- To make ahead: Prepare and refrigerate, then reheat slightly before serving.
🍂 Flavor Variations
- Salted Caramel Apple: Sprinkle flaky sea salt before the caramel sets.
- S’mores Style: Add mini marshmallows, graham cracker crumbs, and chocolate drizzle.
- Apple Pie Twist: Dust with cinnamon sugar before baking.
- Nutty Delight: Go heavy on pecans and drizzle with white chocolate.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Serve these Sheet Pan Caramel Apples on parchment squares or small plates for easy cleanup. They’re perfect for:
- Fall parties and harvest festivals 🍁
- Halloween dessert tables 🎃
- Thanksgiving snacks 🦃
- Cozy weekend baking with kids 👩👧
Pair with hot apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate fall treat.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Room temperature: Store covered for up to 6 hours.
- Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- To reheat: Microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften the caramel.
🍎 Why This Recipe Works
Traditional caramel apples are nostalgic but tricky — the caramel slides off, the apples are too big to bite, and cleanup is messy. This sheet pan method solves all of that while still delivering the chewy, gooey, buttery caramel flavor everyone craves.
It’s a modern twist that’s as practical as it is delicious — perfect for busy moms, party hosts, or anyone who wants that fall fair feeling without the hassle.
❤️ FoodieMoms’ Take
At FoodieMoms, we’re all about real treats made simple. These Sheet Pan Caramel Apples bring together the flavors of fall in one beautiful, easy-to-share dessert. Whether it’s for a cozy family night or a big celebration, this recipe will steal the spotlight.
