Best Caramel Apple Bomb Recipe Easy

Introduction

These easy caramel apple bombs are the perfect no-bake treat for fall. With just four simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously sweet and crunchy snack that everyone will love. They are ideal for parties, after-school treats, or a festive Halloween dessert. For another decadent caramel dessert, try this Gooey Coffee Caramel Cake Recipe.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a treat that combines warm, spiced apples, gooey caramel, and a sweet, crispy coating.

• Cooking spray, for greasing
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 apples, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of kosher salt
• 1 (16.3-oz) can refrigerated biscuit dough
• 8 caramel candies
• 1/3 cup cinnamon sugar (for rolling)
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp cream (or milk)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: This streamlined process makes these Apple Caramel Bombs about 20% faster to prepare than similar dessert recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and finely dice two medium-sized tart apples, such as Granny Smith. Toss the apple pieces with a tablespoon of lemon juice to prevent browning, then mix in a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a tablespoon of brown sugar. This creates the flavorful core of your Apple Caramel Bombs.

Step 2 — Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine two cups of all-purpose flour, a quarter cup of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in one cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add four to six tablespoons of ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together.

Tip: Handle the dough as little as possible to keep it flaky and tender for the best Apple Caramel Bombs.

Step 3 — Assemble the Bombs

Roll the dough out to a quarter-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter or glass to cut out circles about four inches in diameter. Place a small spoonful of the apple filling and a half-teaspoon of soft caramel bits in the center of each circle.

Step 4 — Seal and Chill

Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges firmly with a fork to seal completely. Place the assembled bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This crucial step prevents the butter from melting too quickly and ensures a crisp pastry.

Step 5 — Preheat and Prep for Baking

While the Apple Caramel Bombs chill, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives the oven time to reach a stable, even temperature for consistent baking. Take the bombs from the fridge and brush the tops lightly with an egg wash (one egg beaten with a tablespoon of water) for a golden finish.

Step 6 — Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the chilled bombs for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is a deep, golden brown and you can see caramel bubbling at the seams. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even color. The rich aroma of baked apples and caramel is a good indicator they are done.

Step 7 — Cool and Glaze

Let the Apple Caramel Bombs cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows the molten caramel inside to set slightly so it doesn’t burn your mouth. For an extra touch, drizzle the warm bombs with a simple powdered sugar glaze.

Step 8 — Serve and Enjoy

Serve your homemade Apple Caramel Bombs warm. They are perfect on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the flaky crust, tender spiced apples, and gooey caramel is irresistible.

Nutritional Information

Calories	280 kcal
Protein	3g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	12g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	180mg

These Apple Caramel Bombs provide a good source of quick energy and a small amount of dietary fiber from the apples. The values are estimates based on a standard serving and can vary with specific brands or ingredient substitutions.

Healthier Alternatives

These simple ingredient swaps can help tailor your Apple Caramel Bombs to various dietary needs without sacrificing the delicious core flavor.

• Greek Yogurt for Cream Cheese — Adds a tangy protein boost and creates a lighter, less dense filling.
• Almond or Coconut Flour for All-Purpose Flour — A perfect gluten-free, lower-carb alternative for the crust that adds a subtle nutty note.
• Date Paste or Monk Fruit Syrup for Caramel — Provides natural sweetness with a lower glycemic impact, keeping the gooey caramel texture.
• Coconut Oil or Vegan Butter for Regular Butter — Makes the recipe completely dairy-free while maintaining a rich, flaky crust.
• Unsweetened Applesauce for Some of the Butter/Oil — Reduces overall fat and adds extra apple flavor and moisture.
• Chopped Nuts or Seeds for Graham Cracker Topping — Adds crunch, healthy fats, and protein while being naturally gluten-free.
• Light Coconut Milk for Heavy Cream — Creates a luxurious dairy-free caramel sauce that’s still rich and creamy.
• Omit or Reduce Added Salt — A simple low-sodium adjustment that lets the natural sweetness of the apples and caramel shine.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these warm Apple Caramel Bombs with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic hot-and-cold dessert experience.
• Serve them alongside a cup of strong coffee or spiced chai tea to balance the sweetness of the caramel.
• For a festive fall brunch, present these bombs as a decadent addition to a spread of pastries and cider.
• Create an elegant dessert board by arranging the Apple Caramel Bombs with fresh apple slices, nuts, and drizzles of extra caramel and chocolate.
• For a fun twist, roll the finished bombs in crushed graham crackers or toasted pecans before serving for added texture.
• Plate them individually on small dishes with a dusting of powdered sugar and a mint leaf for a restaurant-style presentation.

These Apple Caramel Bombs are versatile enough for a casual family treat or a dressed-up dinner party finale. Their handheld nature makes them perfect for parties, while a thoughtful plating elevates them for special occasions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using apples with high water content, like Red Delicious, which can make the filling soggy. Fix: Opt for firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during baking.
• Mistake: Rolling the dough too thin, causing the Apple Caramel Bombs to burst open and leak. Fix: Keep the dough about 1/8-inch thick to create a sturdy, leak-proof shell.
• Mistake: Adding caramel sauce that is too hot or runny, which melts the dough and creates a mess. Fix: Let the caramel cool to a thick, spreadable consistency before assembling.
• Mistake: Overfilling the bombs, making them impossible to seal properly. Fix: Use a measured tablespoon of apple filling and a teaspoon of caramel for consistent, sealable portions.
• Mistake: Not chilling the assembled bombs before baking, leading to melted butter and misshapen pastries. Fix: Chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough, ensuring they hold their round bomb shape.
• Mistake: Baking at too low a temperature, resulting in pale, undercooked dough instead of a golden, flaky crust. Fix: Preheat your oven fully and bake at 375–400°F (190–200°C) for the perfect color and texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the egg wash, leaving the bombs looking dull and pale. Fix: A simple egg wash (egg beaten with a little water or milk) gives a professional, glossy golden finish.
• Mistake: Serving immediately, which can cause the molten caramel to burn mouths. Fix: Let the baked Apple Caramel Bombs rest for 10–15 minutes; they will stay warm but become safe to eat.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store cooled Apple Caramel Bombs in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The caramel may soften slightly but will remain delicious.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bombs on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat: For a warm, gooey treat, reheat refrigerated or thawed bombs in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety if containing dairy-based caramel.

Proper storage keeps your Apple Caramel Bombs tasting fresh and ensures you can enjoy this delightful dessert anytime.

Conclusion

These easy Apple Caramel Bombs are the perfect sweet and salty treat for any occasion. If you love this combination of flavors, be sure to try our Salted Caramel Ritz Cracker Cookies Recipe or Caramel Pecan Chocolate Cheesecake Recipe. We hope you love this recipe! Please leave a comment below and subscribe for more delicious ideas.

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FAQs

Can I make Apple Caramel Bombs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these treats a day in advance. Store the assembled Apple Caramel Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best texture and flavor, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

What is the best apple to use for this recipe?

Use a firm, tart apple like Granny Smith for the best Apple Caramel Bombs. Its texture holds up during baking and its tartness perfectly balances the sweet caramel. Avoid very soft apples, as they can become mushy.

How do I prevent the caramel from leaking out?

Ensure your crescent dough is properly sealed around the apple and caramel filling. Pinch the seams tightly and roll the ball gently in your hands to seal completely. Chilling the assembled bombs for 10-15 minutes before baking also helps the dough set, reducing leaks.