Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Caramel apple truffles are the ultimate bite-sized fall indulgence — creamy, buttery caramel blended with tangy apple flavor, coated in smooth chocolate, and finished with a hint of crunch. These little treats taste like caramel apples, apple pie, and fudge all rolled into one. I first made them for a fall party, and they vanished before the cider was poured! They’re simple to make, require no baking, and look elegant enough for gifting or entertaining. Perfectly sweet, slightly tart, and melt-in-your-mouth creamy, these truffles capture everything we love about autumn in a single, decadent bite.
Caramel Apple Truffles | Sweet and Creamy Fall-Inspired Treats
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 20 truffles
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Caramel Apple Truffles are sweet, creamy, and perfectly bite-sized fall treats! Made with soft caramel, tangy dried apples, and a smooth white chocolate coating, they combine the classic flavors of caramel apples in an easy, no-bake truffle form.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried apples, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup soft caramels (about 12 pieces), unwrapped
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 8 oz white chocolate or white candy melts
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother coating)
- Caramel drizzle or crushed graham crackers, for garnish
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth. Let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, dried apples, and the melted caramel. Stir until well combined and thick enough to form balls.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 20–30 minutes, or until firm.
- In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate with coconut oil (if using) until smooth.
- Dip each truffle into the melted chocolate, coating fully, and place back on the parchment-lined sheet.
- Drizzle with extra caramel or sprinkle with crushed graham crackers while still wet.
- Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!
Notes
- Use tart dried apples for the best flavor contrast.
- Store truffles in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Substitute milk or dark chocolate for a richer twist.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Dried apple pieces — Add chewy texture and natural apple sweetness.
Cream cheese — Gives the truffle filling its creamy, smooth base.
Caramel sauce or caramel bits — The star flavor; brings rich, buttery sweetness.
White chocolate or vanilla candy coating — For melting into the truffle mixture and coating the exterior.
Graham cracker crumbs — Add structure and a hint of crunch, reminiscent of pie crust.
Cinnamon — Adds warmth and complements the caramel apple flavor.
Nutmeg (optional) — For an extra cozy fall spice note.
Sea salt (optional) — Balances sweetness and enhances caramel flavor.
Chopped pecans or toffee bits (optional topping) — Add crunch and texture to the smooth coating.
Directions
In a food processor, pulse dried apple pieces until finely chopped. Add cream cheese, caramel sauce, graham cracker crumbs, and cinnamon. Blend until the mixture forms a smooth, sticky dough. If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 20–30 minutes, or until firm.
Meanwhile, melt white chocolate or candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place the coated truffles back onto the parchment paper.
Before the coating sets, drizzle with extra caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped pecans, sea salt, or toffee bits if desired. Refrigerate until fully set, about 15 minutes. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
- large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
- Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
- Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
- Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
- knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
- Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20 truffles. Preparation takes 20 minutes, chilling 30 minutes. Total time: approximately 50 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the fridge before serving. Keep chilled until ready to eat to preserve their creamy texture and coating.
Variations and Customizations
Salted Caramel Truffles — Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to the top for balance.
Apple Pie Truffles — Add extra cinnamon, nutmeg, and crushed graham crackers.
Chocolate Caramel — Use dark or milk chocolate for coating instead of white chocolate.
Pecan Crunch — Roll the truffles in finely chopped pecans before chilling.
Caramel Mocha — Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder for depth.
Vegan Version — Use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan caramel sauce.
Pumpkin Spice — Add a dash of pumpkin spice blend for a seasonal twist.
Boozy Truffles — Stir in a teaspoon of bourbon or apple liqueur for adults.
Candy Apple Red — Use red candy melts for a fun, festive coating.
Toffee Drizzle — Top with crushed toffee bits for extra crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of dried?
No, fresh apples add too much moisture; dried apples give the right texture.
How do I prevent the coating from cracking?
Make sure the truffles aren’t frozen solid before dipping — chilled but slightly soft is perfect.
Can I make these without a food processor?
Yes, just finely chop the apples and mix by hand until smooth.
What kind of caramel works best?
Thick, chewy caramel bits or a homemade caramel sauce work best for flavor and texture.
Can I use other chocolate coatings?
Yes, white, dark, or milk chocolate all work — just choose your favorite flavor profile.
How long do they last?
About a week refrigerated, but they taste best within the first few days.
Can I freeze caramel apple truffles?
Yes, freeze on a tray first, then store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Definitely — they’re perfect for make-ahead desserts and keep beautifully chilled.
How do I get a smooth chocolate coating?
Dip each truffle in melted chocolate and tap gently to remove excess.
Can I make mini versions?
Yes, use a smaller scoop for bite-sized treats — great for dessert tables or gifting.
Conclusion
Caramel apple truffles are the perfect fall-inspired treat — creamy, buttery, and bursting with the cozy sweetness of caramel and apple. Each bite is a little piece of autumn bliss, wrapped in smooth chocolate and finished with a touch of crunch. They’re elegant enough for gifting, simple enough for weeknight indulgence, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Once you try these irresistible truffles, they’ll become a must-have on your fall dessert list — festive, flavorful, and delightfully sweet in every bite.
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