I love how this dip comes together with only three ingredients—caramels, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. It transforms into a luscious, creamy treat that’s perfect for dipping apples or elevating desserts, especially during the fall when apples are at their best.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I adore how effortlessly the ingredients melt together into something irresistible. It’s quick—a total of about 6 minutes from start to finish—making it ideal when I want a fast but indulgent treat. Plus, with minimal fuss, it’s perfect for entertaining or quiet snacking.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
caramels
butter
sweetened condensed milk
directions
I combine the unwrapped caramels, butter, and sweetened condensed milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Then, I melt everything together over low heat, stirring frequently until the caramels are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Finally, I pour the dip into an airtight container and let it cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 servings.
Prep time: 1 minute
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 6 minutes
Variations
I sometimes swap in homemade caramel sauce for even richer flavor—just letting it come to room temperature or warming it slightly if needed. For a festive twist, adding a pinch of pumpkin pie spice turns it into a pumpkin-spiced caramel dip. A dash of sea salt on top also adds a nice balance to the sweetness.
storage/reheating
I store the dip at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I reheat it gently in the microwave at 50% power for 15 to 30 seconds, stirring every 10 seconds. If it thickens too much, I add a teaspoon of water to loosen it up.
FAQs
How long does this dip keep at room temperature?
I keep it at room temperature for up to 5 days in an airtight container, but if I want it to last longer, I refrigerate it.
Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought caramels?
Yes, I like using homemade caramel sauce when I have it on hand. It makes the dip even creamier and richer.
What kind of apples go best with this dip?
I prefer tart apples like Granny Smith because they balance the sweetness of the dip, but sweeter apples like Honeycrisp and Fuji work great too.
Can I make this dip ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely. I often make it a day ahead and warm it just before serving. It saves time and still tastes freshly made.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
I usually use unsalted butter so I can better control the flavor, but I’ve made it with salted butter before and it turned out just as delicious.
Conclusion
This easy caramel apple dip is the kind of recipe I love keeping in my back pocket. It’s fast, foolproof, and always a hit with guests or family. Whether I’m celebrating fall or just in need of a sweet fix, this dip is a go-to I can rely on every time.
Print
Easy Caramel Apple Dip – Just 3 Ingredients!
- Prep Time: 1 minute
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 6 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy caramel apple dip comes together with just three ingredients—caramels, butter, and sweetened condensed milk—into a creamy, indulgent treat that’s perfect for dipping apples or drizzling on desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) bag of caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Unwrap the caramels and place them in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
- Add butter and sweetened condensed milk to the pan.
- Heat over low heat, stirring frequently until the caramels are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the dip into an airtight container and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for contrast, or sweet ones like Honeycrisp for a sweeter snack.
- Add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal variation.
- Sprinkle sea salt on top for a sweet-salty balance.
- Store at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power, stirring every 10 seconds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg