Gooey Apple Caramel Bombs: Warm, Sticky, and Totally Irresistible
Soft biscuit dough wrapped around caramelized apples and molten caramel, baked to golden perfection and topped with crushed peanuts and caramel drizzle—these bombs are a bite-sized explosion of fall flavor
Introduction: A Dessert That’s All About the Drama
There’s something magical about biting into a warm pastry and discovering a gooey, molten center. These Gooey Apple Caramel Bombs deliver exactly that—each one is a handheld dessert packed with tender apples, warm spices, and a hidden caramel candy that melts into a sticky surprise. Wrapped in buttery biscuit dough and baked until golden, they’re finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for crunch.
They’re perfect for fall gatherings, holiday dessert trays, or cozy nights when you want something sweet and satisfying. And the best part? They come together in just over 30 minutes using simple ingredients and a muffin tin.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these bombs so gooey and delicious:
Dough:
- Refrigerated biscuit dough (1 can, 16.3 oz)
Soft, flaky, and easy to work with—perfect for wrapping around the filling.
Tip: Use jumbo biscuits for larger bombs or crescent roll dough for a twist.
Filling:
- Apples (2, finely chopped)
Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for balance and texture. - Butter (1 tbsp for cooking + 2 tbsp melted for brushing)
Adds richness and helps caramelize the apples. - Brown sugar (2 tbsp)
Sweetens the filling and deepens the flavor. - Ground cinnamon (1 tsp)
Adds warmth and classic fall spice. - Salt (pinch)
Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors. - Caramel candies (8)
Nestled inside each bomb for a gooey, molten center.
Optional: Add a splash of vanilla or a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.
Toppings:
- Caramel sauce
Drizzled over the warm bombs for extra indulgence. - Crushed peanuts
Add crunch and a salty contrast to the sweetness.
Optional: Use crushed pretzels, pecans, or sea salt flakes instead.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Muffin tin (standard size)
- Parchment paper or liners
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Pastry brush
Tip: Use silicone muffin cups for easy release and cleanup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
In a skillet over medium heat:
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter.
Add chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until:
- Apples are softened
- Mixture is thick and caramelized
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Tip: Don’t overcook—apples should be tender but not mushy.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Separate biscuit dough into individual biscuits.
Flatten each biscuit into a round disc (about 3–4 inches wide).
Optional: Use a rolling pin or press with your fingers.
Step 4: Fill and Seal
Place a spoonful of apple mixture in the center of each dough circle.
Top with one caramel candy.
Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal tightly, forming a ball.
Tip: Seal well to prevent caramel from leaking during baking.
Step 5: Bake
Place each filled biscuit seam-side down in the prepared muffin tin.
Brush tops with 2 tablespoons melted butter.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until:
- Tops are golden brown
- Dough is cooked through
Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
Optional: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking for extra sparkle.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Drizzle warm bombs with caramel sauce.
Sprinkle with crushed peanuts.
Serve warm and gooey!
Presentation Tip: Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Fall parties
- Halloween treats
- Thanksgiving dessert trays
- Cozy weekend baking
Serve with:
- Hot apple cider
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Coffee or chai
Yields:
- 8 servings
Tip: Serve in cupcake liners for easy handling and cleanup.
Variations to Try
Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:
Chocolate Caramel
Add a square of chocolate with the caramel candy.
Peanut Butter Apple
Add a spoonful of peanut butter to the filling.
Coconut Crunch
Add shredded coconut and drizzle with chocolate sauce.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based biscuit dough, dairy-free caramel, and vegan butter.
Mini Bombs
Use smaller dough pieces and mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare apple filling up to 2 days in advance.
- Refrigerate: Store baked bombs in airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked bombs for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes.
Tip: Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until warm and gooey.
Nutrition Notes (Per Bomb, ~1 of 8)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~4g
- Carbohydrates: ~38g
- Fat: ~16g
- Sugar: ~20g
- Sodium: ~380mg
- Fiber: ~2g
These bombs are:
- Gooey and indulgent
- Quick and easy
- Perfect for fall
- Great for sharing
Final Thoughts
These Gooey Apple Caramel Bombs are more than just dessert—they’re a warm, sticky celebration of fall flavors and cozy baking. Whether you’re making them for a crowd or just treating yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress with their molten centers and irresistible toppings.