Caramel Apples: A Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free Dessert Option

Sticky, sweet, nostalgic — caramel apples are as much a memory as they are a dessert. But when caramel is made with traditional dairy, those delicious treats often exclude many with dietary restrictions. This version turns that classic upside-down and makes dairy-free caramel apples that shine — and because there’s no wheat or flour in the coating, they also land as a gluten-free dessert, assuming you use certified gluten-free apples and any dipping ingredients.

In Thrive’s recipe, the caramel is crafted from just a few clean ingredients — coconut milk, coconut sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla — allowing it to achieve that velvety, chewy texture without butter, cream, or gluten-based thickeners. This shift makes the dessert accessible to more people without sacrificing the charm of biting into a crisp apple slathered in warm caramel.

These caramel apples are perfect for fall fairs, Halloween tables, holiday parties, or anytime you want a dessert that feels both festive and inclusive. Stick them on skewers, chill them just right, and drizzle or dip for maximum appeal.

---

Caramel Apple Recipe

Recipe Details

Yield: 5 apples
Active Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Caramel Apple Ingredients

For the apples

• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• 6 (3.5-ounce pouches) coconut milk caramels
• ½ cup regular coconut milk
• 5 baby apples

For the toppings

• Coconut chips, chopped
• Sunflower seeds, chopped
• Dried cranberries, chopped
• Cacao nibs
  , chopped
• Goji berries, chopped
• Macadamia nuts, chopped
• Sriracha cashews, chopped
• Bacon bits, chopped
• Special equipment: Wooden popsicle sticks

How to Make Caramel Apples

1. Fill a large bowl halfway with water and add apple cider vinegar. Wash apples in the liquid with a clean sponge to remove any wax. Dry completely, then insert a stick into the top stem of each apple. Place on a sheet tray and refrigerate 40 minutes. Arrange toppings in small bowls or a muffin tin.
2. Unwrap all caramels and place in a tall 2-quart stock pot. Add coconut milk and warm over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the caramels have slowly melted.
3. Reduce heat to low, then dunk apples into caramel sauce one at a time, until submerged. Gently pull apples upward and twist to coat, allowing any excess to drip back into the pot.
4. Dip into toppings of choice, then place apples stick side up on a sheet tray and refrigerate until hardened.

---

Caramel Apples Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per apple (recipe yields 5 servings). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 apple
Calories	≈ 420 kcal
Protein	≈ 1 g
Carbs	≈ 60 g
Sugar	≈ 50 g
Fiber	≈ 4 g
Fat	≈ 20 g

---

Caramel Apple Variations & Tips

• Nut or seed coating: After dipping, roll the apple in chopped pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds (ensure they’re gluten-free) for extra texture.
• Drizzle layers: Use melted dark chocolate (gluten-free) or almond butter drizzle on top of the caramel for visual contrast and flavor depth.
• Salt finish: Sprinkle flaky sea salt or smoked salt immediately after dipping while caramel is still tacky — it enhances sweetness.
• Freeze briefly: Chill apple sticks in the fridge or freezer before dipping to help the caramel adhere better and reduce drips.
• Alternative fruits: Use pears, bananas, or even pineapple slices instead of apples for a twist.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the caramel batch ahead and reheat gently before dipping to save time during serving.”

---

Best Caramel Apple Pairings

• Vanilla bean nondairy ice cream (gluten-free): A scoop next to your caramel apple elevates it into a dessert plate.
• Spiced nuts or granola: A crunchy side for contrast, especially if gluten-free.
• Warm apple cider or chai tea: Echoes the autumn flavors while keeping things cozy.
• Dark chocolate squares: Pair small bites of chocolate to complement the sweetness.
• Whipped coconut cream: A light, airy foil to the dense texture of caramel coating.

---

When to Make Caramel Apples

• Halloween treat table: A classic fit for autumn and kid-friendly parties.
• Thanksgiving dessert tray: Offers a chewy, fruity option among pies and cakes.
• Fall festivals or fairs: Portable, nostalgic, and crowd-pleasing — ideal for serving by the slice.
• Holiday gifting: Wrap individually in parchment or cello for charming edible gifts.
• Autumn brunch spreads: Use as dessert or sweet component next to pancakes, waffles, or French toast (gluten-free).

Recipe credit: Angela Gaines