Crisp apple slices drizzled with a warm, gooey caramel peanut butter sauce – this is one of those treats I whip up when I want something quick, wholesome, and absolutely satisfying. The creamy drizzle melts into the crunchy apple wedges, creating a beautiful contrast of textures and a burst of sweet, nutty flavor in every bite. Whether I’m after a healthy dessert, an after-school snack, or a light fall indulgence, this recipe hits the spot.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Pink Lady), sliced
1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Optional toppings: crushed peanuts, granola, mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut
Directions
I start by washing and slicing the apples into thin wedges, making sure to remove the cores and seeds.
In a small saucepan, I combine the peanut butter, maple syrup or honey, coconut oil, and sea salt over low heat.
I stir the mixture constantly for about 2–3 minutes, just until it becomes smooth and slightly runny.
Then, I arrange the apple slices on a serving plate.
I drizzle the warm caramel peanut butter sauce generously over the apples.
Finally, I like to sprinkle on toppings such as crushed peanuts, granola, or mini chocolate chips, depending on what I have.
I serve it immediately, or pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes if I want the drizzle to set a bit.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes
Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per serving
Variations
I swap the peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter when I want a different flavor or need a nut-free option.
For extra crunch, I add toasted nuts or granola on top.
When I crave chocolate, I use mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate.
In fall, I sometimes sprinkle a little cinnamon into the caramel drizzle for a seasonal touch.
I like to use pears instead of apples sometimes for a softer bite and a twist on the original.
Storage/Reheating
This snack is best fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The apples might brown slightly, but they still taste great. I don’t reheat the apples once they’re drizzled, but if I’m making the caramel drizzle ahead of time, I reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until smooth before using.
FAQs
How do I prevent the apples from browning?
I toss the apple slices with a little lemon juice before plating them to keep them looking fresh if I’m prepping ahead.
Can I make this ahead of time?
I prefer to make it right before serving, but I can prep the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. I just reheat it and drizzle when ready.
What apples work best?
I like tart varieties like Granny Smith or Pink Lady because they balance the sweet drizzle beautifully.
Can I make this nut-free?
Yes, I use sunflower seed butter and skip the crushed peanuts. It still turns out delicious and safe for nut-free environments.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Kids love the sweet drizzle and crunchy apples. I let them add their own toppings, which makes it fun and interactive.
Conclusion
Caramel Peanut Butter Apples are my go-to when I want something quick, healthy, and a little bit indulgent. With minimal ingredients and a simple process, it’s a treat I can feel good about making and eating. Whether it’s for a weeknight dessert, a fall gathering, or just an afternoon snack, this recipe always delivers the perfect bite.
📖 Recipe:
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Caramel Peanut Butter Apples
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crisp apple slices drizzled with a warm, gooey caramel peanut butter sauce. A quick, healthy, and satisfying snack or dessert that’s plant-based, gluten-free, and naturally sweetened.
Ingredients
2 crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Pink Lady), sliced
1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Optional toppings: crushed peanuts, granola, mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut
Instructions
- Wash and slice the apples into thin wedges, removing the cores and seeds.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine peanut butter, maple syrup or honey, coconut oil, and sea salt.
- Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly runny.
- Arrange the apple slices on a serving plate.
- Drizzle the warm caramel peanut butter sauce over the apple slices.
- Sprinkle with desired toppings such as crushed peanuts, granola, or mini chocolate chips.
- Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for 10 minutes if you want the drizzle to set.
Notes
Swap peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for different flavors or nut-free needs.
Add cinnamon to the sauce for a fall twist.
Toss apple slices in lemon juice to prevent browning if prepping ahead.
Use pears instead of apples for a softer variation.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
