Save to Pinterest A playful, crowd-pleasing dessert featuring crisp apple slices topped with gooey caramel, crunchy popcorn, and a sprinkle of chocolate—perfect for snacking or parties.
I first made these nachos for my kids' movie night, and everyone loved making their own plate with extra caramel and popcorn. They remain a go-to treat for parties.
Ingredients
- Large crisp apples: 3, cored and thinly sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Popcorn: 2 cups, plain or lightly salted
- Caramel sauce: 1/3 cup, store-bought or homemade
- Mini chocolate chips: 1/4 cup
- Chopped roasted peanuts or pecans: 2 tablespoons, optional
- Shredded coconut: 2 tablespoons, optional
Instructions
- Prepare apples:
- Wash, core, and thinly slice the apples. Arrange the slices in an even layer on a large serving platter.
- Warm caramel:
- Warm the caramel sauce slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop until pourable.
- Layer caramel:
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce evenly over the apple slices.
- Add popcorn:
- Sprinkle the popcorn generously over the apples.
- Final drizzle:
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the popcorn and apples.
- Add toppings:
- Top with mini chocolate chips, nuts, and coconut if using.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately for the best crunch.
Save to Pinterest This dessert quickly became a family favorite for weekend game nights. Everyone piles on their favorite toppings and it disappears in minutes.
Required Tools
Large platter or tray, sharp knife, small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan
Allergen Information
Contains milk in caramel sauce and chocolate chips, peanuts or tree nuts if using nuts, and coconut if using. Check ingredient labels for gluten and nut content.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 210 calories, 6 g total fat, 40 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein
Save to Pinterest Give these nachos a try for your next gathering—they come together quickly and everyone will love building their own plate.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of apples work best?
Crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and offer a tangy-sweet contrast to caramel and popcorn.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
It's best served immediately for maximum crunch, but you can prep apples and popcorn beforehand and assemble just before serving.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free popcorn and caramel sauce. Always check product labels for gluten and nut content if required.
- → What toppings can be added?
Enhance with mini chocolate chips, chopped roasted nuts, shredded coconut, sea salt, whipped cream, or ice cream.
- → How do I store leftovers?
This sweet snack is best enjoyed fresh, as popcorn may soften; if needed, refrigerate in an airtight container for a day.
- → Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Both store-bought and homemade caramel work well; warm until pourable for easy drizzling over the apples.