Get dipping with this sweet and savory apple dipping charcuterie board. Follow the easy directions and customize dipping flavors and toppings to make a perfect treat!
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Are you hosting a cozy gathering with friends and family or simply want to indulge in a festive snack? Try this caramel apple dipping charcuterie board! Combining the crispness of fresh apples with the sweet, rich flavor of caramel, this caramel apple board treat is a beloved autumn classic.
But why stop at just dipping apples? A caramel apple dipping charcuterie board takes this seasonal favorite to the next level, offering a fun, interactive, and visually stunning way to enjoy this fall treat with friends and family. My kids had so much fun making their own special treat and even my little pickiest eater couldn’t keep away from this snack time treat!
It’s not only delicious but also customizable, allowing you to get creative with a variety of toppings and dippers…from nuts and chocolate chips to sprinkles and sea salt, the possibilities are endless and make the perfect crowd-pleaser.
With all the apples lying around enjoy baking some Apple Tree Muffins and if it’s close to Halloween learn how to make a Jack and Sally Haloween Charcuterie Board,
What Apples Should I Use?
Choosing the right apples is key to creating a successful caramel apple dipping charcuterie board. The best apples for your caramel board should be crisp, juicy, and have a balance of sweet and tart flavors. Here’s a quick guide to some of the best apple varieties for dipping in caramel:
- Granny Smith: Known for their tartness, these apples provide a perfect contrast to the sweetness of caramel.
- Honeycrisp: With their juicy and sweet flavor, Honeycrisp apples are always a favorite.
- Fuji: These apples are sweet and firm, making them ideal for holding up against caramel and toppings.
- Gala: Slightly milder in flavor, Gala apples offer a nice balance for those who prefer a less tart option.
How to Select the Best Apples
When selecting apples for your charcuterie board, look for ones that are fresh, firm, and free of bruises.
Smaller apples are often better for dipping, as they’re easier to handle and portion out on the board.
If possible, choose a mix of apple varieties to offer a range of flavors and colors, making the board more appealing and giving guests options to suit their taste.
The Basics
Creating a caramel apple dipping charcuterie board starts with a few essentials:
- Caramel Sauce: You can use store-bought caramel or make your own. Warm it up slightly before serving to make dipping easier.
- Apples: As mentioned, choose a variety of apples to offer different flavor profiles.
- Dipping Bowls: Small bowls for holding the caramel and any other sauces or dips you might want to include, such as chocolate or peanut butter.
The Toppings
Toppings are where you can really get creative with your caramel apple board. Here are some popular choices to consider:
- Crushed Nuts: almonds, pecans, and peanuts add a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Chips: Dark, milky, or white chocolate chips offer a sweet contrast to the apples.
- Sprinkles: Add a touch of fun and color with a variety of sprinkles.
- Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the sweetness of the caramel.
- Coconut Flakes: For a tropical twist, coconut flakes are a great option.
- Crushed Cookies: Crumbled Graham crackers, Oreos, or gingersnaps add texture and flavor.
Expanding Your Caramel Apple Dipping Charcuterie Board
If you want to take your caramel apple charcuterie board to the next level, consider adding a few extra elements:
- Fruit Varieties: In addition to apples, you can include other fall fruits like pears or figs.
- Cheese: A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or cheddar, can pair surprisingly well with caramel and apples.
- Crackers and Bread: Offer some crackers or slices of bread to add a savory element to the board.
- Dips: Beyond caramel, consider offering chocolate fondue, marshmallow fluff, or yogurt as additional dipping options.
Caramel Apple Dip Charcuterie Board
How to Make and Assemble a Caramel Apple Dipping Charcuterie Board
Assembling your board is the fun part! Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients and Supplies:
- 3-4 large Apples
- 2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 cups Water
- ⅓ cup Caramel Sauce
- ½ cup Marshmallow Fluff
- 2 oz Cream Cheese (room temp)
- ⅓ cup Hazelnut Spread
- Toppings (Select your own)
- 1 Snickers bar
- ½ cup Coconut Flakes
- ½ cup Chocolate Chips
- ½ cup White Chocolate Chips
- ¼ cup Sprinkles
- Bamboo Treat Pop Sticks/Mini Skewers
- Charcuterie Board
Directions:
Start with the dips:
- Make your marshmallow/cheese dip: combine marshmallow fluff and cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Mix on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes or until a smooth, creamy consistency has been achieved.
- Melt your chocolate chips in the microwave by warming in 30-second increments and stirring each time until the chips are fully melted.
- Place your caramel, melted chocolate, and other dipping sauces in small bowls and arrange them on the board.
Arrange the apples:
- Cut apples into slices (approximately ½ inches thick).
- To prevent apples from turning brown, combine 2 cups of water with 2 TBSP lemon juice and soak apples for 5 minutes.
- Remove apples from the water and place on a paper towel to drain any excess water.
- Put apple slices on sticks and arrange them around the dips.
Add the toppings:
- Chop the Snickers bar into tiny pieces.
- Place the coconut flakes and other toppings in small bowls or sprinkle them directly on the board in clusters around the apples and dips.
Expand the Spread:
If you’re adding extra elements like cheese or crackers, place them in the remaining spaces on the board.
Finishing Touches: Add some decorative elements like small pumpkins, autumn leaves, or cinnamon sticks to give the board a festive fall feel.
Enjoy the apple dipping board!
How Long Does a Charcuterie Board Last?
A caramel apple dipping charcuterie board is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last for a couple of hours if properly stored. To keep apples from browning, dip them in a mixture of lemon juice and water before placing them on the board. Leftover caramel and toppings can be stored in airtight containers for up to a week, but apples should be consumed the same day for the best flavor and texture.
Apple Caramel Board Tips and Notes
- Prep Ahead: Prepare and slice the apples just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent browning.
- Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and dipping sauces to create unique flavor combinations.
- Kid-Friendly: This board is perfect for kids, but you might want to provide toothpicks or skewers to make dipping easier for little hands.
Wrap Up
A caramel apple dipping charcuterie board is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet treat with your family, this board offers endless possibilities for creativity and deliciousness. So gather your ingredients, get dipping, and savor the sweet taste of autumn!
Print the Directions Here:
Caramel Apple Dip Charcuterie Board
Equipment
- Bamboo Treat Pop Sticks/Mini Skewers
- Knife
- Bowl
Ingredients
- 3-4 Large Apples
- 2 Tbs Lemon Juice
- 2 cups Water
Apple Dips
- 1/2 cup Caramel Sauce
- 1/2 cup Marshmallow Fluff
- 2 oz Cream Cheese (room temp)
- 1/3 cup Hazelnut Spread
Toppings: Select Your Own
- 1 Snickers bar
- 1/2 cup Coconut Flakes
- 1/2 cup Chocolate Chips
- 1/2 cup White Chocolate Chips
- 1/4 cup Sprinkles
Instructions
- Make your marshmallow/cheese dip: combine marshmallow fluff and cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Mix on medium-high speed for 1-2 minutes or until a smooth, creamy consistency has been achieved.
- Melt your chocolate chips in the microwave by warming in 30-second increments and stirring each time until the chips are fully melted.
- Place your caramel, melted chocolate, and other dipping sauces in small bowls and arrange them on the board.
- Cut apples into slices (approximately ½ inches thick). To prevent apples from turning brown, combine 2 cups of water with 2 TBSP lemon juice and soak apples for 5 minutes. Remove apples from the water and place on a paper towel to drain any excess water. Put apple slices on sticks and arrange them around the dips.
- Chop the Snickers bar into tiny pieces.
- Place the coconut flakes and other toppings in small bowls or sprinkle them directly on the board in clusters around the apples and dips.