Caramel Apple Salad

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Craving a sweet and crunchy treat? This Caramel Apple Salad is a fun twist on a classic dessert, combining crisp apples with a creamy, caramel-flavored dressing.

It’s the perfect mix of tart and sweet, with marshmallows and nuts adding just the right amount of texture. This salad is quick to put together and is sure to be a hit at any gathering, whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light dessert.

Let’s jump into how to make this easy, crowd-pleasing favorite!

Yield: 6 Servings

This Caramel Apple Salad combines the crispness of fresh apples with a creamy caramel-flavored dressing. It's a sweet and crunchy treat that’s perfect for parties or as a simple dessert. The addition of marshmallows and nuts brings great texture to every bite.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and chopped
1 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1 cup whipped topping or whipped cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)

Instructions

Core and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with lemon juice in a large bowl to keep them from browning.
Mix in the mini marshmallows and chopped pecans (or walnuts) with the apples.
In a separate bowl, combine the caramel sauce, whipped topping (or whipped cream), and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Pour the caramel dressing over the apple mixture and gently toss everything together until the apples are fully coated.
For the best results, refrigerate the salad for 15-30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Serve chilled, and enjoy!

Notes

Apple variety: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast with the sweet caramel, or Honeycrisp for a sweeter option.
Nuts: If you prefer, you can swap the pecans or walnuts for almonds or leave them out altogether.
Caramel drizzle: For extra indulgence, drizzle a bit more caramel sauce over the salad just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but for the best texture, add the marshmallows and dressing just before serving to keep them from becoming too soft.

What can I use instead of whipped topping?

If you prefer a less sweet option, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt or a mixture of yogurt and whipped cream.

How can I keep the apples from turning brown?

As mentioned in the recipe, tossing the apples with lemon juice will help keep them fresh and prevent browning.

Wrapping it up

This Caramel Apple Salad is a simple and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall. It’s the perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion with crunchy apples, sweet marshmallows, and a creamy caramel dressing.

Whip it up in just minutes for a quick dessert or side dish that everyone will love!