You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to get why these caramel apples are healthier.
Yep, there is just less caramel than the regular kind (and I didn’t add the nuts). You save quite a few calories by doing this, as a regular caramel apple can run as high as 390 calories. Ouch!
This is really fun to do with kids. If you are having a party and want to serve a treat, these are great to make ahead. They also take about 10 minutes from start to finish. When I tried this recipe, I thought I wouldn’t be apple to handle the “candy making” aspect, but it is really simple.
Agave syrup is perfect for this concoction because it gives liquid to the caramel (and so you don’t have to add cream). I like to use a more sour apple to contrast with the caramel to get a better flavor. Store these in the fridge for a week for a fun healthier treat.
Ingredients: (makes 9)
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup agave nectar
2 tablespoons butter
pinch salt
9 medium apples
popsicle sticks or barbecue skewers
Steps:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Wash apples and place on baking sheet.
2. Combine sugar, nectar, butter, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat. As soon as the syrup starts to bubble stir constantly for 2 minutes until the mixture darkens. Just be sure to keep stirring for two minutes after the mixture gets to a boil and you will have yummy homemade caramel for your apple. If you don’t stir, you will have a burnt mess that will destroy your pan (trust me).
3. Using a tablespoon measure, work quickly and drizzle caramel over the apple. After you finish all 9, stick in a skewer or popsicle stick into the top. Let cool for 5-10 minutes and enjoy!
For one apple = 171 calories, 2.9 g fat, 39.4 g carbohydrates, 32.7 g sugar, 0.5 g protein, 4.8 g fiber, 36 mg sodium, 5 PointsPlus
*Lisa Cain, Ph.D., is an avid snacker, foodie, published author, and mother of 2. An evolutionary biologist by training, she has become obsessed with how food contributes to our overall health. Check out Lisa's site www.snack-girl.com and follow on Facebook and Twitter for more great recipes!
