Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 Granny Smith apples
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup marzipan
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp almond extract
- 6 wooden skewers
Special Equipment Needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples. Remove the stems and insert a wooden skewer into the top of each apple.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat until it melts and turns amber in color. Do not stir the sugar, but swirl the pan occasionally to ensure even melting.
3. Once the sugar has melted, remove the pan from heat and carefully add the heavy cream, butter, sea salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Return the pan to medium heat and attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Cook the mixture until it reaches 240°F (soft ball stage).
5. Remove the pan from heat and dip each apple into the caramel mixture, swirling to coat evenly. Place the coated apples onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the marzipan, powdered sugar, and almond extract until a smooth paste forms.
7. Once the caramel has cooled and hardened, roll out the marzipan mixture into thin strips and wrap them around the base of each apple, pressing gently to adhere.
8. Serve the marzipan caramel apples immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
240°F (soft ball stage)
Serving size:
6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 380
Total fat: 16g
Saturated fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 270mg
Total carbohydrates: 60g
Dietary fiber: 3g
Total sugars: 53g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of apple you prefer, but Granny Smith apples work best for their tartness.
- If you don't have marzipan, you can use almond paste instead.
- You can substitute the sea salt with regular table salt.
Variations:
- You can add chopped nuts or sprinkles to the marzipan mixture for added texture and flavor.
- You can drizzle melted chocolate over the marzipan for a decadent touch.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to have all your ingredients measured and ready before starting the caramel.
- Use caution when working with hot caramel, as it can cause severe burns.
- If the caramel becomes too thick while dipping the apples, you can reheat it over low heat until it becomes more fluid.
Storage Instructions:
Store the marzipan caramel apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
These apples are best served cold, but if you prefer them warm, you can microwave them for a few seconds before serving.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the marzipan caramel apples on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped nuts or sprinkles over the marzipan for added texture and color.
Pairings:
Serve these apples with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
These apples are a dessert on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the caramel becomes too hard while cooling, you can reheat it over low heat until it becomes more fluid.
- If the marzipan mixture is too sticky, you can dust your hands with powdered sugar to make it easier to handle.
Food Safety Advice:
- Use caution when working with hot caramel, as it can cause severe burns.
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils thoroughly before starting the recipe.
Food History:
Marzipan is a traditional European confection made from ground almonds and sugar. It has been used in desserts for centuries and is often shaped into fruits and other decorative shapes.
Flavor Profiles:
These marzipan caramel apples are sweet and nutty, with a hint of saltiness from the sea salt.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these marzipan caramel apples as a dessert or a sweet treat for a special occasion.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Caramelized, Rich, Fruity