As the thermometer dips and the view from my kitchen window transforms into a scene ablaze with the colors of fall, I once again feel a familiar craving inch up. There’s something deeply satisfying about the rich, creaminess of fine caramel that makes my tastebuds dance this time of year. Preferably eaten while wearing flannel, caramel apples, caramel corn and caramel pies are all among the delights of my fall table and a staple at our harvest-time celebrations!
I highly recommend starting off your own autumn traditions with some classically delicious caramel apples. Wendy Rusch of New Richmond, WI knows a thing or two about these tasty treats.
“My mom worked at an apple orchard when I was a child,” explains Wendy. “…and they made apple cider, apple pies, apple crisps, caramel apples etc. to sell, besides all the wonderful apples…
My mom acquired the recipes for these things, and they all were good, but this one is OMGosh Good! It makes the best caramel apples!”
We couldn’t agree with Wendy more! Her mom’s caramel apple recipe is just as delightful to make as it is to eat. While it is a bit time-consuming to prepare, dip and coat each apple, it can also be a wonderful activity for the whole family. We spread out all of the ingredients across the kitchen counter and recruited the entire family to lend a hand. After a few “sticky situations” and a ton of laughs, we ended up with platters full of festive apples.
Always festive, Jess Weible of Virginia Beach, VA recently treated us to her favorite recipe for caramel-icious Chocolate Caramel Turtles. These little guys are another simple, classic flavor of the season. By introducing whipped topping into the melted caramel, she is able to create perfectly chewy, chocolate-coated goodness. Make room at your table for these guys… just be sure to serve them at room temperature otherwise they will be too hard to eat. (Trust me, your teeth will thank you. I speak from experience!)
That’s great, Janet, but I need a bigger chocolate fix than that, you say? Look no further than Debbie Deverill’s Caramel-Chocolate Layered Fudge. I’d like to say that the richness of this decadent dessert is such that a little bit goes a long way. Unfortunately, when I make this recipe I simply can”t stop eating it! Debbie confirms my dilemma.
“This is a to die for dessert. Try eating just one… it won’t happen!”
Oh, we tried, Debbie… and you were right. Next time, we’re going lighter on dinner so that we have more room for this tasty indulgence. This is just the type of dessert that will appeal to kids and gourmets alike. Try adding it to your holiday cookie platters… or show off for the folks at the next bake sale. They won’t be able to eat just one piece either.
Whether dipped, drizzled or layered, caramel is the epitome of sweetness during this season of gratitude and warmth. Treat yourself and make some sweet kitchen memories.