This Caramel Apple Dip is the kind of sweet, cozy recipe that instantly makes any gathering feel special. Made with brown sugar, butter, and sweetened condensed milk, this creamy dip delivers rich caramel flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a fall party, setting up a snack board, or just treating your family, this easy caramel dip pairs perfectly with crisp apple slices and more.
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Dip
This recipe checks all the boxes for a go-to dessert dip. It’s quick to make, uses pantry staples, and has a smooth, velvety texture that feels indulgent without being complicated. The brown sugar adds warmth and depth, while the condensed milk creates a luscious consistency that clings beautifully to apples. Best of all, it’s a family-friendly treat that works for holidays, game nights, or after-school snacks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this caramel apple dip:
- Brown sugar – Provides deep, molasses-like sweetness
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and smooth texture
- Sweetened condensed milk – Creates a creamy, thick caramel base
- Salt – Balances the sweetness
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor
These ingredients come together to create a dip that tastes like homemade caramel without the stress of candy thermometers or complicated steps.
How to Make Caramel Apple Dip (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until fully liquefied. Stir gently to prevent browning.
Step 2: Add Brown Sugar and Salt
Stir in the brown sugar and salt. Continue stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Stir in Condensed Milk
Slowly pour in the sweetened condensed milk while stirring constantly. This helps prevent scorching and ensures a creamy texture.
Step 4: Simmer Until Thick
Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for several minutes, stirring often, until it thickens to a dip-like consistency.
Step 5: Finish with Vanilla
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the dip cool slightly before serving—it will thicken more as it rests.
Tips & Variations
- Keep stirring: Constant stirring prevents burning and keeps the dip silky smooth.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the dip up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- Dairy-free option: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free condensed milk alternatives.
- Extra flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon for warm fall spice.
- Texture control: If the dip thickens too much, gently warm it and stir in a splash of milk.
Serving Ideas & Storage
This caramel apple dip is incredibly versatile. Serve it with sliced apples, pear wedges, pretzels, marshmallows, or graham crackers. It also works beautifully as part of a dessert board or fall snack spread.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
Print
Easy Caramel Apple Dip for Cozy Fall Snacking
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 1 3/4 cups (serves 10–12) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Caramel Apple Dip is a rich, velvety treat made with brown sugar, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for apple slices, pretzels, or marshmallows, it’s an easy-to-make dip that brings cozy sweetness to any gathering.
Ingredients
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and salt until the sugar starts to dissolve and the mixture looks glossy.
3. Slowly pour in the sweetened condensed milk, stirring constantly to keep it smooth.
4. Reduce heat to low and gently simmer, stirring often, until thick and creamy (about 6–8 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Cool for 5–10 minutes, then serve warm or at room temperature with dippers.
Notes
Stir often to prevent scorching—caramel can burn quickly on the bottom of the pan.
If the dip thickens too much after cooling, warm it gently and stir until smooth (add 1–2 tsp milk if needed).
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Serve with apple slices, pear slices, pretzels, marshmallows, or graham crackers.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 120mg |
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Apple Dip is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Creamy, comforting, and full of classic caramel flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether for fall celebrations or everyday snacking, this dip is always a hit.