Date Caramel Apple Slices

This easy, no-bake treat comes together with just a few wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make these Caramel Apple Slices at home.

• Apples: I love Honeycrisps for their balance of sweetness and tartness, plus their crisp texture holds up beautifully under the toppings. Fuji or Pink Lady apples work just as well if you prefer something sweeter, and Granny Smiths would be great for a tart contrast. I use a handheld corer to remove the seeds, then slice them into rings.
• Date Caramel: This naturally sweet, velvety caramel sauce is made with just Medjool dates, oat milk, water, and vanilla—no refined sugar or dairy! You can make it in minutes, and it’s an easy swap for traditional caramel with all the health benefits of dates.
• Nuts: I like to add crushed walnuts and pistachios to add some satisfying crunch to the layer of soft caramel. Walnuts add a slightly earthy flavor, and pistachios beautiful color and a subtle, buttery flavor. Toast them lightly beforehand for even more depth. Skip them if you’re allergic or replace them with cacao nibs or toasted pumpkin seeds, if you like. 
• Bittersweet chocolate chips: A drizzle of melted chocolate gives these apple slices that indulgent touch while still keeping things balanced. If you prefer dairy-free, opt for vegan chocolate chips.

How to Make Date Caramel Apple Slices

Even if you’re making the Date Caramel from scratch, it’ll only take you about 40 minutes to put these no-bake treats together. Here’s how: 

• Get ready. Make a batch of Date Caramel Sauce. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Prepare the apples. Core 2 large Honeycrisp apples or apples of your choice using a coring tool. Slice the apples into 1/4-inch thin rounds and arrange the apples on the prepared baking sheet. 
• Add the toppings. Melt 1/2 cup bittersweet chocolate chips and let them cool slightly. Spread the date caramel sauce on top of the apples. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup crushed walnuts and 1/2 cup crushed pistachios and drizzle with the melted chocolate. 
• Chill and serve. Freeze the apples for about 10 to 15 minutes, just until the chocolate is set. Then transfer to a tightly closed container in the fridge. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. 

Make it Your Own

Just like the caramel apples at those specialty candy stores, the sky’s the limit with customizing these caramel apple slices. Here are a few wholesome ideas for how to adapt the recipe. 

• Swap out the caramel: Swap the date caramel for our Hazelnut, Pistachio or Almond Spread for a quick, decadent twist. They wouldn’t be caramel apples, but a version made with your favorite nut butter would be equally delicious. A version made with sweet pistachio cream and dark chocolate would be a perfect Halloween treat! 
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt: A pinch of flaky sea salt over the chocolate drizzle enhances the sweetness and adds a delicious salty contrast.
• Use other nuts: Replace the walnuts and pistachios with almonds, peanuts, or pecans for unique flavor and crunch.
• Add a topping: Add a sprinkle of dried cranberries, raisins, or shredded coconut on top for a chewy, colorful garnish.

What to Serve with Date Caramel Apple Slices

These caramel apple slices make the perfect light dessert or afternoon treat, especially when you’re craving something sweet but wholesome.

Serve them slightly chilled so the chocolate has a gentle snap and the apples stay crisp. They’re great for casual get-togethers, family movie nights, or when you want a make-ahead treat that still feels special without much effort.

For a cozy fall-inspired spread, pair these apple slices with coffee, a warm pot of tea, or spiced apple cider and some crunchy cookies like these cardamom-spiced pistachio biscotti.