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These warm caramel apple pie bombs transform classic fall flavors into irresistible bite-sized treats that deliver all the satisfaction of apple pie with half the effort. The combination of tender apples, gooey caramel, and cinnamon-sugar coating creates a dessert that's perfectly portioned and impossible to resist.
I first made these for a casual family gathering when I needed a last-minute dessert. The surprised expressions when everyone bit into the hidden caramel center instantly made these a permanent fixture in my fall baking rotation.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated biscuit dough: Forms the perfect pillowy exterior without any fuss
- Caramel candies: Create that magical melty center that everyone loves
- Apples: Provide the classic pie filling texture and flavor; use Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness
- Brown sugar: Adds that rich molasses flavor that pairs perfectly with apples
- Cinnamon: Brings the quintessential warming spice that makes this truly taste like apple pie
- Butter: Enriches both the filling and exterior, giving these bombs that irresistible golden finish
- Cinnamon sugar coating: Creates a delightful crispy sweet exterior that mimics pie crust
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease your baking dish with cooking spray, ensuring nothing sticks. Having your workspace organized before starting makes assembly much easier.
- Create The Apple Filling:
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium high heat until it begins to foam. Add your finely chopped apples along with brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples have softened but still maintain some texture. The mixture should be fragrant with the apples releasing their juices. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble The Bombs:
- Take each biscuit from the can and gently stretch it into a flatter, wider circle without tearing. Place a tablespoon of the cooked apple mixture directly in the center of each dough circle, then position a caramel candy right on top of the apples. The caramel will melt during baking creating pockets of gooey goodness.
- Seal The Bombs:
- Carefully bring all edges of the dough up and over the filling, meeting at the top. Pinch all seams firmly together to ensure nothing leaks during baking. Once sealed, roll the bomb gently between your palms to create a more uniform ball shape, making sure the seal stays on the bottom.
- Finish And Bake:
- Arrange your sealed bombs in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each. Brush the tops generously with melted butter, then sprinkle liberally with cinnamon sugar until well coated. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, watching carefully until they turn a beautiful golden brown with the dough fully cooked through.
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The caramel candies are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I once tried making these without them, thinking the apple filling would be enough, but that magical moment when you bite in and discover molten caramel completely transforms the experience from good to absolutely unforgettable.
Storage Tips
These apple pie bombs maintain their best texture when enjoyed warm from the oven but if you have leftovers store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat simply place them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through or microwave individual bombs for 15 to 20 seconds. The caramel center will reignite its gooey consistency, making them taste nearly fresh baked again.
Perfect Pairings
Elevate these caramel apple pie bombs by serving them alongside complementary flavors that enhance the experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates the perfect hot and cold contrast while allowing the melted ice cream to create a natural sauce. For an extra decadent touch, drizzle warm salted caramel sauce over the top or dust with powdered sugar just before serving. During fall gatherings, I love offering these alongside mugs of spiced apple cider or hot chai tea to create a complete seasonal experience.
Ingredient Swaps
This versatile recipe welcomes creative adaptations based on what you have available. If you prefer a different fruit, try substituting the apples with pears or even canned peaches, drained well, with spices adjusted accordingly. No caramel candies? Chocolate chips or a spoonful of Nutella creates an equally delightful center. The refrigerated biscuit dough can be substituted with crescent roll dough for a lighter flakier texture, though you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. These variations keep the recipe exciting while maintaining the delightful surprise factor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of dough works best for this dish?
Refrigerated biscuit dough works best. Its flakiness and ease of use make it perfect for this dish.
- → Can I substitute the caramel candies?
Yes, you can use soft toffee or chunks of caramelized chocolate as a substitute for caramel candies.
- → How do I prevent the bombs from bursting open?
Ensure the edges of the biscuit dough are pinched together tightly and roll them into a secure ball shape before baking.
- → What is the best way to serve them?
Serve them slightly warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bombs in advance and bake them just before serving. Store them in the fridge until ready to bake.