Caramel Apple Truffles | Sweet and Creamy Fall-Inspired Treats

Few desserts capture the spirit of autumn as perfectly as Caramel Apple Truffles. These bite-sized confections bring together the comforting sweetness of caramel, the tart freshness of apples, and the creamy richness of white chocolate. Each truffle bursts with flavor and texture, making them a luxurious treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. I tried adding a hint of cinnamon once, and it enhanced the warmth beautifully—like biting into a cozy fall afternoon. Whether served as elegant party bites, edible gifts, or simply a seasonal indulgence, these truffles are the perfect way to celebrate crisp weather and festive flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These truffles offer everything you love about caramel apples—sweet, tart, buttery, and creamy—but without the mess of sticks and dipping. They’re simple to make, no baking required, and their smooth interior contrasts perfectly with a delicate chocolate shell. They store well, look impressive, and taste like a gourmet confection you’d find at an artisan candy shop.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Each ingredient contributes to the distinctive fall flavor and velvety texture of these truffles.

Dried apples – The concentrated apple flavor gives the truffles their signature tangy sweetness. Chop them finely for a smooth filling.

Soft caramels – Melted caramels create the chewy, buttery backbone of the filling. You can use homemade caramel for an extra touch of luxury.

Cream cheese – Provides creaminess and structure, balancing the sweetness of the caramel and apples.

White chocolate – Used both in the filling and as the coating; it adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel.

Heavy cream – Blends with the caramel and chocolate to achieve a silky, smooth texture.

Cinnamon – Adds warmth and enhances the apple flavor with a subtle spice note.

Sea salt – A pinch brings out the complexity of the caramel and balances the sweetness.

Vanilla extract – Deepens the flavor and adds a cozy aroma that complements the caramel beautifully.

Finely chopped nuts or graham crumbs (optional) – Perfect for rolling the truffles to add a touch of texture and visual appeal.

Directions

Begin by finely chopping the dried apples and setting them aside. In a small saucepan, melt the soft caramels with heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until creamy and lump-free. Add the melted caramel mixture, chopped apples, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir until everything is well combined.

Cover the mixture and refrigerate for about 30–40 minutes until firm enough to roll. Once chilled, use a small spoon or scoop to form balls about one inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.

Meanwhile, melt the white chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring frequently. Dip each chilled truffle into the melted chocolate, coating completely. Return them to the tray and let them set. If desired, drizzle extra chocolate over the top or roll them in finely chopped nuts or graham crumbs for added flair. Let the truffles set completely before serving or packaging.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 20–24 truffles. Preparation takes approximately 25 minutes, chilling requires 40 minutes, and coating takes another 15 minutes. In total, you’ll have a batch of truffles ready in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store your truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months and let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving. These truffles are best enjoyed chilled but can be left at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for a softer texture.

Variations and Customizations

Salted Caramel Apple Truffles

Add extra sea salt flakes on top for a beautiful balance of sweet and savory flavor.

Spiced Apple Delight

Blend a touch of nutmeg or allspice with the cinnamon for a deeper, spicier aroma.

Milk Chocolate Coating

Use melted milk chocolate instead of white for a classic caramel-apple-chocolate flavor combo.

Dark Chocolate Indulgence

Dip the truffles in dark chocolate for a sophisticated, bittersweet twist.

Nutty Crunch

Roll the coated truffles in crushed pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and a rustic finish.

Vegan Option

Use vegan caramel, dairy-free cream cheese, and vegan chocolate for a completely plant-based version.

Caramel Apple Pie Truffles

Mix in crushed graham crackers with the filling for a hint of pie crust flavor and texture.

Festive Touch

Decorate with edible gold dust or colored sprinkles for gifting during fall celebrations.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apples instead of dried?

Dried apples are preferred since they add concentrated flavor without excess moisture that could affect texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they store beautifully in the refrigerator or freezer and maintain their flavor for days.

Why is my mixture too sticky to roll?

It may not be chilled enough—refrigerate longer until firm but pliable.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely. It adds a richer, more authentic caramel flavor.

Can I skip the cream cheese?

It’s possible, but the truffles will be softer and slightly less creamy in texture.

How do I prevent the coating from cracking?

Ensure the truffles are cold but not frozen solid before dipping in melted chocolate.

Can I use candy melts instead of white chocolate?

Yes, though real white chocolate provides a smoother, creamier flavor.

What’s the best way to coat truffles neatly?

Use a fork or dipping tool to let excess chocolate drip off before setting them on parchment.

Can I flavor these with caramel liqueur?

Yes, a small splash can enhance the caramel flavor—just use sparingly to avoid thinning the mixture.

Are these suitable for gifting?

Absolutely. Place them in mini paper cups inside a decorative box for a beautiful homemade gift.

Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Truffles bring together the essence of fall in one luscious bite. The blend of caramel, apple, and chocolate creates a luxurious treat that’s both comforting and elegant. They’re simple to make, easy to store, and versatile enough to adapt for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, looking for a thoughtful edible gift, or simply treating yourself to something sweet, these truffles are guaranteed to impress. With their creamy centers, crisp coating, and nostalgic flavor, they capture autumn in every delicious bite.

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