Caramel Apple Pie Bombs Recipe

Caramel Apple Pie Bombs are the ultimate cozy treat every dessert lover deserves. Imagine all the nostalgic flavors of homemade apple pie—tender apples, gooey caramel, and cinnamon sugar—but packed into a handheld pastry that’s crispy on the outside and warm and molten within. They’re outrageously fun to make, guaranteed to impress, and perfect for sharing. Each bite is pure, autumnal bliss, whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the fryer or indulging with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of making Caramel Apple Pie Bombs is that the ingredient list is short, sweet, and packed with flavor. Each item adds a delicious layer—whether it’s crunch, meltiness, or a sugary sparkle—and together, they create magic you can taste.

• Granulated sugar: The secret to that irresistible, sparkly cinnamon coating.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warm spiced aroma and authentic apple pie flavor.
• Biscuits (7.5 ounces): Pre-made biscuit dough makes this recipe easy enough for any night of the week.
• Apple pie filling (21 ounces): The shortcut to classic, gooey pie flavor in every bite.
• Caramels (10, cut in ½ longways): When melted, these become little pockets of molten gold.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Gives the bombs their signature golden, crispy exterior.
• Caramel sundae topping (optional): Drizzle over the finished bombs for an extra-sweet finish.

How to Make Caramel Apple Pie Bombs

Step 1: Prepare the Frying Oil

Start by filling a 2 to 3 quart heavy-bottomed saucepan a little over halfway with vegetable oil. This should be enough oil to completely immerse your dough balls—full-envelopment is the key to getting that perfect, even golden crust. Set it aside while you prep your remaining ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

In a heat-safe bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. A quick stir is all it takes! This aromatic mixture will coat your Caramel Apple Pie Bombs right after frying, so have it ready before you start.

Step 3: Flatten the Biscuits

Open up the can of biscuits, and one by one, flatten each piece of dough. You can simply use your fingers, but a floured rolling pin makes it super easy and gets them nice and thin. Aim for a circle big enough to hug a hearty spoonful of filling. If your dough is sticking, dust your work surface with a pinch of flour.

Step 4: Add the Apple Pie Filling and Caramels

Spoon about one tablespoon of luscious apple pie filling into the center of each flattened biscuit. Then, top the apples with half a caramel. Splitting the candies ensures they melt all the way inside, creating that oozy center every pie bomb needs.

Step 5: Form the Bombs

Now comes the fun part! Carefully pinch the dough edges up and around the filling—just like making a dumpling. Seal them tightly so the gooey center stays inside during frying. Shape each one into a tidy ball by rolling the ends under and gently smoothing any seams.

Step 6: Heat the Oil

Place your saucepan over medium heat and wait until the oil is ready. You can test the temperature by dropping in a small scrap of dough: it should sizzle vigorously. If you have a thermometer, aim for 350°F, but if not, watching for enthusiastic bubbles works too.

Step 7: Fry the Caramel Apple Pie Bombs

Using a slotted metal spoon, gently slide your first couple of bombs into the hot oil—no more than two at a time. Fry, rolling them gently, until every side is golden brown and crisp. It only takes a few minutes, so keep an eye on them! Adjust the heat if they brown too quickly. Lift out with your slotted spoon and go straight to the next step.

Step 8: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

While still warm (but not too hot to handle), roll the fried bombs in your cinnamon sugar mixture until thoroughly covered. The sugar will cling beautifully to the crisp dough, adding sparkle and that classic apple pie bite.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Pile your Caramel Apple Pie Bombs on a platter and drizzle with caramel sundae topping if you’re feeling extra decadent. Serve immediately for gooey centers and happy faces all around!

How to Serve Caramel Apple Pie Bombs

Garnishes

Top your freshly fried Caramel Apple Pie Bombs with a cascade of warm caramel sundae sauce, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling fancy, a dusting of crunchy sea salt over the caramel drizzle brings out the richness of the filling and provides a show-stopping finish.

Side Dishes

While these pie bombs can absolutely steal the show solo, they pair beautifully with classics like vanilla ice cream, spiced chai lattes, or a mug of hot cider. Set them alongside a bowl of toasted pecans or warm, mulled cranberries for a full-on fall dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful party setup, serve the Caramel Apple Pie Bombs skewered on sticks with dipping sauces—think vanilla glaze, chocolate, or extra caramel. Want to impress guests? Stack them into a rustic “pie bomb tower” with drizzles of caramel cascading down. For cozy nights, wrap them in parchment and tie with twine for treats-to-go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the Caramel Apple Pie Bombs cool completely on a wire rack, then transfer them to an airtight container. At room temperature, they’ll stay delicious for up to two days—though they’re best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

To freeze, place fully cooled pie bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll hold up well for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, no need to thaw completely before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat Caramel Apple Pie Bombs in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisped, straight from the fridge or freezer. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect, crunchy exterior—an oven or toaster oven is your best bet!

FAQs

Can I use homemade apple pie filling instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade apple pie filling tastes fantastic here. Just chop your apples small so they fit easily inside the dough, and let the filling cool before assembling the Caramel Apple Pie Bombs.

What’s the best type of biscuit dough to use?

Choose a standard, flaky refrigerated biscuit dough (not the “Grands” size, which can leave the centers undercooked). Smaller biscuits ensure even cooking and the perfect filling-to-dough ratio.

How do I prevent the bombs from bursting open while frying?

Seal the dough tightly around the filling and double-check there are no holes before frying. Pinch and roll the seams securely—this keeps all that delicious caramel apple center right where it belongs.

Can these be made gluten free?

Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free refrigerated biscuit dough and make sure your apple pie filling and caramel candies are gluten free as well. The assembly and frying steps stay exactly the same.

What are some fun flavor variations?

Try swapping out apple pie filling for cherry or peach, or add a little nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar. For grown-up flair, serve with bourbon caramel sauce, or top with toasted nuts for extra crunch!

Final Thoughts

If you love apple pie and caramel as much as I do, you owe it to yourself to whip up a batch of Caramel Apple Pie Bombs. They’re easy, nostalgic, and sure to be a new favorite—so gather your ingredients, invite a friend, and get ready for dessert magic.

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