Recipe by Vegan.org
Sweet, sticky, and fully plant-based—perfect for fall treats or anytime you crave a caramel delight!
These Vegan Caramel Apples are a fun, nostalgic treat made entirely plant-based. Crisp McIntosh or Granny Smith apples are coated in a rich, homemade vegan caramel sauce, creating the perfect balance of tart and sweet. You can add chopped salted peanuts or vegan chocolate for extra texture and flavor.
This recipe is ideal for fall festivities, Halloween parties, or just a fun dessert at home. The caramel is naturally sweetened with brown rice syrup and creamy coconut milk, giving a smooth, luscious coating without any dairy. Kids and adults alike will love holding these sticky, decadent treats by their sticks and enjoying the sweet, fruity bite inside.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nostalgic and fun – A classic treat made 100% vegan.
- Sweet and creamy – Coconut milk and brown rice syrup create a smooth caramel.
- Customizable toppings – Add peanuts, chocolate, or both for extra indulgence.
- Perfect for parties – Eye-catching and easy to serve individually.
- Plant-powered – No dairy, no eggs, all vegan-friendly ingredients.
Vegan Caramel Apples
- Total Time: 20 minutes + cooling
- Yield: 4–6 apples (depending on size) 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Vegan Caramel Apples are a fun, nostalgic treat made entirely plant-based. Crisp McIntosh or Granny Smith apples are coated in a rich, homemade vegan caramel sauce, creating the perfect balance of tart and sweet. You can add chopped salted peanuts or vegan chocolate for extra texture and flavor.
This recipe is ideal for fall festivities, Halloween parties, or just a fun dessert at home. The caramel is naturally sweetened with brown rice syrup and creamy coconut milk, giving a smooth, luscious coating without any dairy. Kids and adults alike will love holding these sticky, decadent treats by their sticks and enjoying the sweet, fruity bite inside.
Ingredients
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McIntosh or Granny Smith apples
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1/3 cup canned coconut milk
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1 cup brown rice syrup
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1 teaspoon salt
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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1 tablespoon vegan margarine (e.g., Earth Balance Original Buttery Spread)
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Optional toppings: chopped salted peanuts, vegan chocolate
Instructions
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Wash and dry each apple. Remove the stem and insert a wooden stick into the top. Line a baking sheet with wax paper.
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut milk, brown rice syrup, and salt. Heat until boiling, about 10 minutes, whisking continuously to prevent sticking.
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Remove from heat and stir in the vegan margarine and vanilla extract. Allow the sauce to cool slightly.
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Place the apples on the prepared wax paper and drizzle the caramel sauce over them.
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Sprinkle and gently press in chopped salted peanuts or vegan chocolate if desired.
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Refrigerate until the caramel hardens. Serve chilled.
Notes
Use crisp, firm apples for the best texture and coating.
Whisk constantly while cooking the caramel to prevent burning or sticking.
Press toppings gently so they adhere but don’t fall off when serving.
Store in the fridge for up to a week; serve chilled for best texture.
*Nutrition info is approximate
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Holiday Treat, Snack
- Method: Drizzling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Apple (1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg



