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A Caramel Apple Bar is such a fun treat to set out when expecting adults and kiddos this fall! I used mini warming dishes that do an excellent job of keeping the caramel, chocolate, butterscotch and peanut butter warm. You can set out any topping in addition to crushed nuts. Make sure to save this one!

I love food bars! They're a hands-on way to get everyone involved and allow choices to your guests can pick what they like best.

This caramel apple bar is more like a candy apple bar. I not only have salted caramel in my mini crocks but I have other yummy dipping sauces as well as toppings.

I love that both kids AND adults can have fun with this dessert station.

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Watch Aleka Set Up A Caramel Apple Bar
What You’ll Need:
The Dips:
Toppings to Take It Up a Notch:
Setting Up the Bar:
Tips for Hosting:
Other Fall Food Ideas
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💬 Comments

Watch Aleka Set Up A Caramel Apple Bar

What You’ll Need:

Mini Warming Dishes / Crocks / Fondue Pots: These are key for keeping your dips warm and gooey, making it easy for guests to dip their apples.
Red and Green Apples: Offer a mix of both to appeal to different flavor preferences. Slice them beforehand or leave them whole for a traditional caramel apple experience.
Long Sticks: Provide sturdy sticks for dipping—perfect for creating that classic caramel apple look!
Hanging Cauldrons: Optional but so cute!!

Mini crocks filled with caramel, chocolate and peanut butter.

The Dips:

Warm dips are essential for a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth coating. In your mini warming dishes, feature a variety of dips to suit different tastes:

Chocolate: Always a crowd-pleaser.
Butterscotch: This brings a rich, buttery flavor.
Salted Caramel: A classic with a little twist, balancing sweetness with a hint of salt.
Peanut Butter: Creamy and nutty, perfect for pairing with sweet toppings.

Cut up red and green apples in mini hanging cauldrons.

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Toppings to Take It Up a Notch:

Create a toppings station where guests can personalize their apples! Use small bowls or jars for easy serving and add a mix of textures and flavors:

Mini Marshmallows: Soft and gooey once they melt a bit.
Brownie Bits: Chewy and rich, perfect with chocolate or peanut butter dips.
Crushed Peanuts: Classic and crunchy, perfect with any of the dips.
Reese’s Pieces: A fun pop of color and a peanut butter-chocolate combo that’s hard to resist.

More Sweet Toppings:

Crushed Oreos – Adds a chocolatey crunch.
Sprinkles – Colorful and fun for kids and adults alike.
Toffee Bits – Buttery and sweet, with a bit of crunch.
M&Ms – A candy-coated crunch in different colors.
Gummy Bears – For a playful, chewy surprise.
Crushed Graham Crackers – Gives a s'mores-like flavor when paired with chocolate.
Shredded Coconut – Adds a tropical twist.
White Chocolate Chips – A creamy, sweet alternative to darker chocolates.
Cinnamon Sugar – Perfect for a warm, autumnal flavor.
Mini Chocolate Chips – A classic that pairs well with any dip.

Setting Up the Bar:

Arrange Your Dips: Set up your mini crocks or fondue pots in a line, each labeled with the type of dip inside. Make sure the warming dishes are lit to keep everything melted and smooth.
Topping Station: Place bowls of your toppings next to the dips with small scoops or spoons. Let your guests go wild by adding a little (or a lot!) of each.
Apples & Sticks: Display the apples in the mini crocks or this hanging cauldron holder. Another option: pre-skewer your sliced apples using long skewers, so they’re ready to dip.
- *TIP: If you’re slicing apples instead of using whole ones, keep them in cold water with some lemon juice to prevent browning.
Set Up a Sign: Chalkboard signs are an inexpensive way to add a bit of glam to any food bar. Plus, we're going for a more rustic vibe and chalkboards are definitely rustic. This one took me 10 minutes to make! All you need is this standing chalkboard and these markers.

Tips for Hosting:

Keep It Mess-Free: Set out parchment paper or wax paper for guests to set their dipped apples on while they cool and set.
Variety is Key: The more variety, the more fun! You can also add extra toppings like sprinkles, crushed cookies, or even a drizzle of white chocolate.
Make It Cozy: Add fall-themed décor like pumpkins, candles, and warm lighting to enhance the ambiance.

This caramel apple bar was so much fun to set up! It's so perfect for a fall gathering, whether it’s a Halloween party, family get-together, or just a fun way to celebrate the season with friends. With so many dip and topping options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Happy dipping!

Mini cauldrons with apples inside and caramel, chocolate, and peanut butter to dip into.

Other Fall Food Ideas

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