This fun and easy recipe turns crisp apple slices into a delicious, shareable dessert loaded with warm caramel, gooey marshmallow, and a variety of toppings. I love making these when I want a quick treat that feels festive and a little nostalgic—like caramel apples, but much easier to eat. Perfect for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or even a cozy movie night, these caramel apple nachos always impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe comes together in minutes with just a few ingredients. It’s fresh and sweet, with the perfect balance of textures from the juicy apples, smooth caramel, and crunchy toppings. There’s no need for sticks or messy dipping—just layer and drizzle everything right on a plate. I can even get creative with different toppings based on what I have in the pantry, which makes it super flexible and fun to prepare.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 to 5 medium apples, cored and thinly sliced (I prefer a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Fuji and Granny Smith)

• 30 large marshmallows

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 35 wrapped caramels or 1 bag (about 11 ounces) of caramel bits

• 1 tablespoon water (used for melting caramels)

• ¼ cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

• ¼ cup chopped peanuts (or any preferred nuts)

• Sprinkles (optional, for decoration and fun color)

Directions

1. I start by preparing the apples. After coring and slicing them into thin wedges, I arrange the slices on a large platter in overlapping layers, like nachos.

2. In a small saucepan over low heat, I combine the marshmallows and butter. Stirring frequently, I melt the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.

3. While the marshmallow melts, I prepare the caramel by placing the unwrapped caramels (or caramel bits) and 1 tablespoon of water into a microwave-safe bowl. I heat the caramel in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s completely melted and smooth.

4. Once both sauces are ready, I drizzle the warm marshmallow mixture evenly over the apples, followed by the melted caramel.

5. Then I sprinkle the mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, and colorful sprinkles over the top.

6. I serve the nachos immediately for the best flavor and texture. The warm drizzles pair perfectly with the fresh, crisp apples.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: Makes about 4 to 6 servings, depending on how generous I am with the portions

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 5 minutes (melting and assembling)

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: I skip the peanuts and use sunflower seeds or crushed pretzels for crunch without allergens.

• Fruit Mix: Sometimes I mix in other fruits like pear slices or banana rounds for added variety.

• Healthier Twist: I use almond butter or peanut butter warmed up instead of caramel for a more wholesome take.

• Extra Sweetness: I add a drizzle of melted chocolate or white chocolate for a richer dessert.

• Spiced Apples: For a cozy flavor, I toss the apple slices with a little cinnamon or apple pie spice before arranging them.

Storage/Reheating

Caramel apple nachos are best served right after making them, while everything is fresh and warm. If I need to store leftovers:

• I place any uneaten nachos in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one day.

• To prevent sogginess, I store undressed apple slices and toppings separately, then assemble right before eating.

• I don’t recommend reheating the assembled nachos, but I can gently rewarm the caramel or marshmallow sauce separately before drizzling again on fresh apples.

FAQs

Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?

I like to slice the apples ahead of time and store them in lemon water (1 tablespoon lemon juice to 1 cup water) to prevent browning. I then pat them dry and assemble everything just before serving.

What Kind Of Apples Work Best?

I prefer a mix of crisp and tart apples like Granny Smith paired with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a nice balance of flavor and texture.

Can I Use Store-Bought Caramel Sauce?

Yes, when I’m in a rush, I use pre-made caramel sauce. I warm it slightly so it drizzles smoothly over the apples.

What Can I Use Instead Of Marshmallows?

If I don’t have marshmallows, I use marshmallow creme or skip it entirely. The caramel and toppings still make for a delicious dish on their own.

Are These Good For Kids’ Parties?

Absolutely. Kids love picking their own toppings and helping with the drizzling. It’s interactive, colorful, and fun to eat—definitely a party favorite in my house.

Conclusion

These caramel apple nachos bring all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of caramel apples into a quick and easy format. I love how simple they are to make and how customizable they can be for any occasion. Whether I’m hosting a fall get-together or just treating myself to something sweet, this recipe is always a hit.