Mediterranean Sheet Pan Caramel Apples
Caramel apples are a nostalgic treat, but this sheet pan version makes them easier to serve and enjoy. Instead of dipping whole apples, you slice them and top them with warm caramel, chocolate, nuts, and marshmallows. It’s a fun, shareable dessert that works beautifully for family gatherings, holiday tables, or casual weekend nights. With Mediterranean-inspired flexibility, you can use your favorite nuts, add a sprinkle of sea salt, or bring in playful toppings like graham crackers or sprinkles.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (for melting and drizzling)
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
Apples: 4 large apples (Granny Smith or other preferred variety), sliced
Caramel Sauce: 1 cup caramel sauce (or caramel bits melted with heavy cream)
Chocolate Chips: 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (or melted chocolate chips)
Nuts: 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or other nuts (pecans, almonds, pistachios)
Mini Marshmallows: 1/4 cup mini marshmallows
Optional Toppings: Sprinkles, crushed graham crackers, sea salt
Instructions
Prep the apples: Wash and slice the apples into wedges. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the toppings stick. Arrange the slices evenly on a parchment-lined sheet pan.
Warm the caramel: If using caramel sauce, heat it slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop until pourable. If using caramel bits, melt them with a splash of heavy cream until smooth.
Drizzle caramel: Pour the warm caramel evenly over the apple slices.
Add chocolate: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the warm caramel so they melt slightly. If using melted chocolate, drizzle it across the apples.
Top it off: Scatter the chopped nuts and mini marshmallows across the sheet pan. Add optional toppings like sprinkles, crushed graham crackers, or a pinch of sea salt.
Set and serve: Let the sheet pan sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the caramel and chocolate to firm slightly. Serve right from the pan for a fun, pull-apart treat.
Tips
Choose the right apples: Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness to balance the sweetness, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work well too.
Dry apples well: Caramel and chocolate won’t stick to wet fruit, so blot slices before topping.
Work quickly: Caramel sets fast, so have toppings ready before drizzling.
Line the pan: Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
Serving trick: Provide small forks or skewers for grabbing slices to keep hands less sticky.
Variations
Nut-free: Skip the nuts and add crushed pretzels, granola, or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
Mediterranean twist: Use pistachios, almonds, or sesame seeds for a more Mediterranean flavor. A drizzle of tahini over the caramel can also add depth.
Chocolate lovers: Use white chocolate drizzle in addition to dark or milk chocolate.
Spiced version: Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom over the apples before adding caramel.
S’mores style: Add crushed graham crackers and torch the marshmallows slightly for a campfire feel.
Sea salt caramel: Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt for balance.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh since apples can brown and the caramel may weep after sitting. If you need to prep ahead, slice apples just before serving or toss them in a little lemon juice to slow browning.
Q: What’s the best way to melt caramel bits?
A: Place them in a saucepan with 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth. You can also use a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second bursts.
Q: Can I make this healthier?
A: Yes. Use dark chocolate instead of milk, skip the marshmallows, and add nuts or seeds for crunch. A light drizzle of honey instead of caramel also works.
Q: Do I need to peel the apples?
A: No, the peel adds color and texture, plus it helps the slices hold their shape. If you prefer them peeled, go for it.
Q: How do I keep leftovers?
A: Leftovers don’t store well because the apples release moisture. If you must save some, cover and refrigerate for up to a day, but expect them to soften.
Nutrition
(per serving, approx. 1/8 of recipe)
Calories: ~220
Carbohydrates: ~38g
Protein: ~2g
Fat: ~8g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~28g
(Values will vary based on type of apples, caramel, and toppings used.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Sheet Pan Caramel Apples are a fun, customizable twist on a classic fall dessert. By serving apple slices topped with caramel, chocolate, nuts, and other add-ins, you create a shareable treat that’s much easier to enjoy than whole caramel apples. With options for healthier swaps, nut-free variations, or Mediterranean-inspired toppings, this recipe is versatile enough for any gathering. Quick to make and guaranteed to disappear fast, it’s a sweet addition to your dessert lineup.