Maple Mushroom Caramel Apples

Serves 6 · 25 min prep · 25 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 385 cal
• 3g protein
• 68g carbs
• 14g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 6 medium firm sweet-tart apples
• 6 wooden popsicle sticks
• 1 cup fresh cremini mushrooms, finely minced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt
• 1/2 cup chopped toasted hazelnuts
• 1 tsp neutral oil for greasing

Instructions

1. 1Wash and thoroughly dry the apples, then twist out the stems and insert a wooden stick firmly into the stem end of each so it stands upright without wobbling.
2. 2Line a baking sheet with parchment and lightly oil it so the finished apples release cleanly once the caramel sets.
3. 3Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the minced mushrooms, and sauté 6 to 8 minutes, stirring often, until the mushrooms release their liquid, shrink, and turn golden with a deep savory aroma.
4. 4Stir in the maple syrup and brown sugar, raise the heat slightly, and cook until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble steadily the edges.
5. 5Pour in the cream carefully—it will foam—then keep the caramel at a steady simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a glossy ribbon that coats the back of a spoon, about 8 to 10 minutes; do not walk away.
6. 6Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and the flaky salt, and let the caramel cool 2 to 3 minutes so it thickens enough to cling without sliding off the fruit.
7. 7Working one at a time, tilt the pan and swirl each apple through the warm maple-mushroom caramel, letting excess drip back, then immediately roll the lower half in chopped hazelnuts.
8. 8Stand the coated apples on the prepared sheet, sprinkle lightly with remaining flaky salt, and let them set at cool room temperature 30 to 45 minutes until the shell is firm to the touch.
9. 9Serve whole on a platter for a shareable weekend centerpiece, or slice into wedges if guests prefer smaller bites; leftovers keep overnight wrapped loosely once fully set.