Sheet Pan Caramel Apples

 

🍎 Sheet Pan Caramel Apples: A New Take on a Classic Fall Treat

When the crisp air rolls in and apple season is in full swing, there’s one nostalgic treat that instantly comes to mind: caramel apples. Sticky, sweet, and delightfully tart, they’re a fall favorite — but let’s be honest… they can also be a bit of a mess to make (and eat!).

That’s why I’m obsessed with this easier, shareable version:
Sheet Pan Caramel Apples — same cozy flavor, way less fuss.

This recipe takes all the best parts of the classic treat — crisp apples, gooey caramel, and your favorite toppings — and turns it into a bake-and-slice dessert bar you can enjoy without the sticky fingers or the need for a stick.

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🧁 What Are Sheet Pan Caramel Apples?

Imagine a layer of crisp apples baked on a buttery graham cracker or cookie crust, topped with rich caramel, and finished with fun toppings like chocolate chips, nuts, or crushed pretzels. Baked on a single sheet pan, it’s easy to prep, easy to serve, and easy to love.

Perfect for:

• Fall parties 🍂

• Halloween gatherings 🎃

• Bake sales 🧁

• Cozy nights in with the family ❤️

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📝 Ingredients

• 4–5 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), thinly sliced

• 1 sleeve graham crackers (or shortbread cookies), crushed

• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1/2 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• Optional toppings:

  • Chopped peanuts or pecans

  • Mini chocolate chips

  • Crushed pretzels

  • Sea salt flakes

  • White chocolate drizzle

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Make the base: Mix crushed graham crackers with melted butter and press it evenly into the bottom of the pan to form a crust.

3. Layer the apples: Arrange the sliced apples evenly over the crust. Sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

4. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sugar is bubbly.

5. Drizzle with caramel sauce while still warm. Add your favorite toppings and let it cool slightly before slicing into squares or bars.

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💡 Tips for Success

• Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness.

• Want to go nut-free? Try crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs for crunch.

• For homemade caramel, combine 1/2 cup sugar with 2 tbsp butter and 1/4 cup heavy cream — cook until smooth and golden.

• These bars are best eaten fresh, but they can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

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🎉 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Much easier to eat than traditional caramel apples.

• Great for a crowd — no skewers, just slice and serve.

• Customizable with your favorite flavors and toppings.

• Fun for kids to help decorate!

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🍁 Final Thoughts

These Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are the perfect mix of cozy fall flavors, easy preparation, and kid-approved fun. Whether you're making them for a festive get-together or just because it's apple season, this recipe is a delicious twist on a timeless treat.

One bite, and you might never go back to the stick version again.