How To Store Caramel Apples

Caramel apples, also called toffee apples or taffy apples, are a quintessential fall treat. They combine crisp, fresh apples with a gooey, sweet caramel coating.

Commonly found at fall festivals or given out at Halloween celebrations, caramel apples offer a delightful balance of seasonal fruit and indulgent toppings. They're classically made with firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, then coated with molten caramel before being dipped into crushed nuts, chocolate chips, sprinkles, or other festive decorations.

While candy apples are said to have been invented in 1908, caramel apples made their debut in the 1950s when Kraft Foods employee Dan Walker began experimenting with leftover caramels sold during Halloween. Since then, they've become an autumn staple at fairs and festivals, and making them at home can be a fun activity for the whole family.

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Why Storage Matters

Whether you made a batch of caramel apples from scratch at home, or picked some up at the local apple farm, proper storage is essential. Caramel apples can spoil quickly if they aren't stored correctly; the caramel coating may become sticky and lose its shiny appearance, and you may even start to attract fruit flies or other insects. By storing them properly, you can extend their shelf life, allowing you to enjoy them for days without sacrificing quality.

How To Store Caramel Apples

Properly storing caramel apples is key to preserving their freshness, texture, and flavor. To enjoy this treat at its best, you have several options for storage methods and durations.

Refrigerating Caramel Apples

Before refrigerating caramel apples, allow them to cool completely at room temperature after coating with caramel. This helps the caramel adhere to the apples and reduces stickiness once they're chilled.

Whether you've made them at home or bought them, space your dipped apples out on a baking sheet lined with wax paper or parchment paper. Chill until firm. If you plan to serve them within a few hours, you can leave them uncovered in the refrigerator. For longer storage, transfer the chilled apples to large containers or cellophane bags, and store in the fridge for up to five days, checking for signs of spoilage before serving.

For the best taste and texture, prepare or purchase them as close to serving as possible. Let them stand at room temperature briefly before serving to allow the caramel to soften slightly.

Freezing Caramel Apples

While you can freeze caramel apples—a particularly tempting option if you're stuck with an abundance of leftovers after a fall event—you're in luck.

To freeze your apples, chill until firm. Transfer to an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and place into a freezer-safe bag. For snacking, it can be helpful to slice the apples into wedges before freezing for quick thawing. Freeze for up to two months, and let them thaw slowly in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before serving. You can also let them thaw at room temperature, but this may lead to an overly softened caramel while your apple remains frozen.

Freezing may extend the life of your apples, but note that the texture of the caramel and apple may change after thawing, with the apple becoming softer or more grainy, and the caramel at risk of separating.

Storing Caramel Apples at Room Temperature

Caramel apples can be stored at room temperature for short-term storage, but it isn't recommended when storing your apples for more than two days. If you do choose to store them at room temperature, place in a cool, dry spot, avoiding humidity if possible, which could cause your caramel to sweat or become sticky. Cover tightly to avoid dust or insects.

If packaging your apples in cellophane bags, transfer to a larger airtight container for extra insurance. Check the apples daily for signs of spoilage.

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Signs of Spoilage

To ensure food safety, it's best to check your caramel apples for certain signs of spoilage before enjoying them, no matter how you chose to store them. If you notice any of these signs, discard your apples immediately:

• Mold: If your caramel apples have any signs of mold, appearing as fuzzy spots on the caramel or apples.

• Discoloration: If your apple has turned brown or has a soft or mushy texture.

• Off-odor: If your caramel apples just don't smell right, giving off a sour or off smell.

• Sticky or runny caramel: If your caramel begins to separate from your apple, it may indicate spoilage or being stored in an area that was too hot or humid.

• Unusual taste: If you bite in and your apple tastes sour or rancid, discard immediately.

Why It's Important to Discard Spoiled Apples

Spoiled caramel apples won't just taste unpleasant, they can also harbor harmful bacteria such as E. coli, salmonella, or listeria, which pose serious health risks. These and other foodborne illnesses can cause nausea or vomiting, or even more severe complications. Additionally, spoiled apples can attract fruit flies or other pests, leading to further issues in your kitchen or storage area.

To ensure the safety and quality of your caramel apples, it's best to be proactive and store them in the best way possible according to when they'll be served. This approach not only helps you avoid food waste, but also maintains the quality and safety of your treats.

Tips for Extending the Shelf Life of Caramel Apples

To extend the shelf life of your caramel apples, keep these tips in mind:

• Quality ingredients: Start with fresh, firm apples for the longest shelf life.

• Proper storage: We recommend storing them in the refrigerator until ready to serve, with the option of storing them at room temperature for short-term storage, or freezing them for extended storage.

• Avoid moisture: Keep your apples tightly sealed and away from humidity or moisture to keep your caramel from being affected.

• Wrap individually: After your caramel has set, wrap each apple tightly in plastic wrap to minimize air exposure.

• Consider a chocolate coating: Coating the caramel apples with a layer of chocolate is delicious, and can also help create a barrier against moisture and air for the longest shelf life.

• Prepare the caramel ahead: A great way to get ahead without having to worry about your caramel apples spoiling is to prepare your caramel in advance. On the day of or day before serving, you can reheat the caramel, and dip your apples as desired.