Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 medium-sized apples
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 10-12 wooden skewers
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples. Cut them into thin slices, about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Insert a wooden skewer into each apple slice, making sure it goes through the center.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
4. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
5. Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and let the mixture come to a boil. Cook until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream, butter, vanilla extract, and salt. The mixture will bubble up, so be careful.
7. Once the caramel is smooth, dip each apple slice into the caramel, making sure it's completely coated.
8. Place the coated apple slices onto the prepared baking sheet and let them cool completely.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for the caramel
Serving size:
- Makes 10-12 caramel apple cigarettes
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar.
- Half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream.
- Margarine can be used instead of unsalted butter.
Variations:
- Crushed nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, can be sprinkled on top of the caramel coating.
- Cinnamon can be added to the caramel for a spiced flavor.
- Different types of apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, can be used.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the apples are completely dry before dipping them into the caramel.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature.
- Work quickly when dipping the apples into the caramel, as the caramel will harden as it cools.
Storage instructions:
- Store the caramel apple cigarettes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- If the caramel coating becomes too hard, place the caramel apple cigarettes in the microwave for a few seconds to soften the caramel.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the caramel apple cigarettes on a platter with a drizzle of melted chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Garnishes:
- Crushed nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, can be sprinkled on top of the caramel coating.
- Melted chocolate can be drizzled on top of the caramel coating.
Pairings:
- Serve the caramel apple cigarettes with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot apple cider.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caramel apple cigarettes can be served as a dessert on their own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the caramel becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- If the caramel becomes too thin, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot caramel, as it can cause burns.
- Make sure the wooden skewers are inserted into the center of each apple slice to prevent them from falling off.
Food history:
- Caramel apples have been a popular treat since the early 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet and tart apples are coated in a rich and buttery caramel.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the caramel apple cigarettes as a fun and festive dessert at a fall or Halloween party.
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Taste: Sweet, Caramelized, Crispy, Tart