Save A fun, crunchy treat featuring crisp apples coated in velvety caramel and rolled in nutty granola—perfect for parties or a sweet snack.
I first made these caramel apple granola pops with my kids for a fall party and they were a huge hit. Everyone loved the crunchy coating and the fresh tart apples under the chewy caramel.
Ingredients
- Apples: 4 medium Granny Smith apples
- Caramel: 1 cup soft caramels (about 28 pieces), unwrapped; 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Granola Coating: 1 1/2 cups granola (nut-free or nutty version as desired); 1/4 cup chopped roasted nuts (optional, such as pecans or almonds)
- Extras: 8 wooden popsicle sticks
Instructions
- Prepare apples:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Cut each apple in half, then use a melon baller or spoon to remove the core. Insert a popsicle stick into the flat side of each apple half.
- Line tray:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Melt caramel:
- In a small saucepan, combine the caramels and heavy cream. Heat over low, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool for 1 minute.
- Prepare coating:
- Place the granola and chopped nuts, if using, in a shallow dish.
- Coat apples:
- Dip each apple half into the melted caramel, swirling to coat evenly. Let excess caramel drip off.
- Add granola:
- Immediately roll the caramel-coated apple in granola, pressing gently to adhere.
- Set pops:
- Place pops on the prepared baking sheet. Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to set the caramel.
- Serve:
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Save My family always requests these for trick-or-treat night. It's a fun way to share a homemade treat, and they love eating them straight from the stick!
Required Tools
Small saucepan, wooden popsicle sticks, baking sheet, parchment paper, spoon or melon baller, shallow dish
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (caramel, heavy cream) and potentially nuts. For allergies, ensure granola and all ingredients are nut-free and check caramel labels for milk or other allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 2 g per serving
Save These pops are perfect for sharing at any fall gathering or as a festive after-school snack. Enjoy them fresh for the ultimate crunch!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make these pops nut-free?
Yes, simply use nut-free granola and skip the chopped roasted nuts for an allergen-friendly option.
- → What apple type works best?
Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness and crunch, but you can use other varieties for different flavor profiles.
- → How can I make the caramel stick better?
Dry apples thoroughly before dipping. Let some caramel drip off for better adhesion, and press granola gently to ensure it sticks.
- → How should these pops be served?
Serve chilled for a firm coating or let them come to room temperature for a softer bite.
- → Can they be made ahead?
They taste best the day they're prepared for maximum crunch, but you can refrigerate briefly before serving.
- → Can I add chocolate?
Yes, drizzle melted chocolate over the granola-coated apples for an extra decadent touch.