To use Peter's caramel for apples, you need to properly prepare the apples and carefully melt the caramel according to specific temperature and timing guidelines.
Preparing delicious caramel apples with Peter's caramel involves a few key steps, starting with the apples themselves before you even touch the caramel.
Proper apple preparation is crucial for the caramel to stick well and ensure the best flavor.
- Step 1: Wash Thoroughly
Wash your apples in warm water to remove any wax coating that might be present. This helps the caramel adhere better. - Step 2: Reach Room Temperature
Allow the apples to come to room temperature, ideally between 68°–70°F (20°-21°C). Apples that are too cold can cause the caramel to seize or crack when dipped.
Melting Peter's Caramel
Melting the caramel correctly ensures a smooth, dippable consistency without scorching it.
- Step 1: Place in Bowl
Place the Peter's caramel in a microwave-safe bowl. - Step 2: Initial High Heat
Cook the caramel on high power for 1 minute in the microwave. - Step 3: Gentle Heating Begins
Switch to 50% power and cook for another 1 minute. - Step 4: Continue Gently Until Melted
Repeat cooking at 50% power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the caramel is thoroughly melted. Be careful to avoid scorching the caramel, which can give it a burnt taste.
Once the caramel is melted to a smooth, dippable consistency and the apples are prepared at room temperature, you are ready to insert sticks and dip the apples. The reference suggests adding 1 lb, which likely refers to adding a pound of caramel or potentially another ingredient to the melted caramel, but the provided snippet does not specify further (see Peter's Chocolate Caramel Apple Tips for full instructions).
Essential Items
Here's a quick list of what you'll need:
| Item | Purpose | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Apples | Dipping base | Must be room temperature |
| Peter's Caramel | The dipping chocolate | Requires melting |
| Microwave-Safe Bowl | To heat the caramel | Suitable for microwave |
| Microwave Oven | For controlled melting | 50% power setting needed |
| Stirring Utensil | Mixing and dipping | Heat-resistant recommended |
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly coated caramel apples using Peter's caramel.
