Caramel Apple Nachos
Caramel apple nachos are a quick, no-bake dessert featuring crisp apple slices drizzled with caramel and chocolate, then topped with a variety of fun, crunchy toppings. Perfect for parties, this playful treat comes together in just 15 minutes and is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 large crisp apples (such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji; cored and sliced thinly)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)
- 1/2 cup prepared caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (semisweet or milk chocolate)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter
- 1/4 cup chopped salted peanuts or pecans
- 2 tablespoons toffee bits or crushed pretzels
- 2 tablespoons shredded coconut, toasted
- Sprinkles, mini marshmallows, or crushed graham crackers (optional, for extra fun)
Instructions
- Core and thinly slice 4 large apples into even wedges. Toss slices with 1 tablespoon lemon juice to keep them bright and crisp. Pat dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
- Lay apple slices out in a single overlapping layer on a large platter or rimmed baking sheet. If you have extra apples, build a second layer right on top.
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat 1/2 cup caramel sauce with 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (if using) for 20-30 seconds, just until pourable. Stir well.
- Combine 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon coconut oil in another bowl. Microwave in 15-second bursts, stirring after each, until smooth and glossy (about 30-45 seconds total). Alternatively, melt gently on the stove over low heat, stirring constantly.
- Using a spoon or squeeze bottle, drizzle half the warm caramel evenly over the apples. Follow with half the melted chocolate.
- Sprinkle your chosen toppings evenly: chopped nuts, toffee bits, pretzel pieces, toasted coconut, or anything else you love.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel and chocolate over the toppings.
- Serve immediately while the apples are crisp and the sauces are slightly warm. If needed, chill the platter in the fridge for a few minutes, but serve within an hour for best texture.
Notes
For best results, use crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Dry apple slices thoroughly before assembling to prevent toppings from sliding off. Caramel and chocolate can be gently reheated if they thicken. For nut-free or gluten-free versions, simply omit or substitute toppings as needed. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/7th of recipe (about 1 cup apple nachos with toppings)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 28
- Sodium: 60
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 2
Keywords: caramel apple nachos, easy dessert, party dessert, no bake, apple dessert, fall recipe, gluten free dessert, kid friendly, caramel apples, apple nachos