Samoa Apple Slices: Fried Apples with Caramel, Coconut, and Chocolate Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that tastes like a tropical vacation wrapped in a warm, crispy treat, look no further than the Samoa Apple Slices: Fried Apples with Caramel, Coconut, and Chocolate Recipe. This delightful dish combines the tangy snap of Granny Smith apples with a luscious batter-fried crunch, then douses them in gooey caramel, toasty coconut, and rich chocolate—an irresistible combination that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. It’s like your favorite Samoa cookie met a homemade southern classic and created magic. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll be your new go-to when you want something both cozy and exotically delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but crucial—they each play a distinct role in creating that perfect balance of crispy, sweet, and creamy textures while enhancing the dish’s bright, rich flavors.

• 6 Granny Smith apples: Their tartness keeps the sweetness in check and the firm texture holds up beautifully when fried.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the batter, giving it that lovely crispiness when fried.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the batter without overpowering the apples.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: Provides a gentle lift to the batter, ensuring a light and airy coating.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the natural sweetness.
• 1/4 cup milk: Creates the perfect batter consistency for even frying.
• 1 large egg: Binds the batter ingredients and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A warm, fragrant note that complements both the apples and the caramel.
• Vegetable oil, for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for crisp, golden results.
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce: The luscious, sticky heart of the dish—store-bought or homemade, both work like a dream.
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut, toasted: Adds a toasty crunch and tropical flavor that makes these apple slices unforgettable.
• 1/4 cup chocolate syrup: Drizzled on top, it’s pure decadence that ties all the components together.
• Coarse sea salt (optional): A pinch brings out the sweetness and adds a sophisticated salty contrast.

How to Make Samoa Apple Slices: Fried Apples with Caramel, Coconut, and Chocolate Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by coring and slicing your Granny Smith apples into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Getting this thickness just right is essential so the apples hold their shape but cook through to a tender, juicy center after frying. The tartness of the Granny Smith will shine through beautifully here.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate small bowl, blend together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately first sets you up for a perfectly balanced batter.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep your batter light and airy. If the batter feels too thick, add a splash more milk; if too runny, sprinkle in a bit more flour for a smooth coating consistency.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Pour about an inch of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or pot and warm it over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Maintaining this temperature is key for a golden, crisp crust without greasy apples.

Step 5: Fry the Apple Slices

Dip each apple slice into the batter, letting any excess drip off gently. Fry the slices in batches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful, tempting golden brown and develop that signature crunch.

Step 6: Drain Excess Oil

Remove the fried apple slices and place them carefully on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any extra oil. This step keeps every bite crisp and not oily at all.

Step 7: Assemble Your Samoa Apple Slices

While the apple slices are still warm, drizzle a generous amount of caramel sauce over each one. Immediately sprinkle toasted shredded coconut on top and press lightly so it sticks. The warmth helps the caramel mingle with the coconut wonderfully.

Step 8: Drizzle with Chocolate

To finish, drizzle with a rich chocolate syrup in thin lines or swirls. This adds a gorgeous, glossy finish and that irresistible chocolate flavor to complement the apples and caramel.

Step 9: Optional Sea Salt Sprinkle

If you love a little salty-sweet contrast, lightly sprinkle coarse sea salt over the finished slices. It’s a small touch that makes a big flavor impact.

Step 10: Serve Immediately

These slices are best enjoyed fresh and warm for the ultimate texture and flavor experience. Grab a fork or just dive in with your fingers—either way, expect smiles all around!

How to Serve Samoa Apple Slices: Fried Apples with Caramel, Coconut, and Chocolate Recipe

Garnishes

For a festive flourish, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside your Samoa Apple Slices: Fried Apples with Caramel, Coconut, and Chocolate Recipe. Fresh mint leaves scattered on top can brighten the whole plate, while a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the warm spices naturally found in this dish.

Side Dishes

These fried apple slices shine as a decadent dessert on their own but also pair beautifully with crispy bacon for a sweet-and-savory brunch twist. Try serving them alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance richness. Coffee or a creamy chai latte makes a dreamy beverage partner too.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests or make snack time extra special? Stack the apple slices in a pretty staggered tower on dessert plates and drizzle the caramel, coconut, and chocolate layers between each layer like a mini apple cake. Or serve them family-style in a rustic wooden bowl for a casual, shareable vibe. For an elegant touch, serve on delicate dessert china with gold forks and napkins in bright island-inspired colors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep refrigerated. They stay good for up to 2 days but may lose their crispiness. Reheating properly can bring back some of the original charm.

Freezing

Freezing fried apple slices isn’t ideal because the texture suffers once thawed, but if you must, freeze them on a tray in a single layer first before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Consume within one month for best taste.

Reheating

To enjoy leftover Samoa Apple Slices: Fried Apples with Caramel, Coconut, and Chocolate Recipe almost like fresh, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the batter soggy. The oven helps revive the crisp coating and warm the apples evenly.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness and firmness, but you can experiment with Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn. Just keep in mind that softer apples might get mushy when fried, so adjust thickness or frying time as needed.

Is it possible to make the caramel and chocolate sauces from scratch?

Yes! Homemade caramel can be made by simmering sugar, butter, and cream until golden and smooth, while a simple chocolate sauce can be created by melting chocolate with a bit of cream or milk. Making these yourself elevates the flavors and lets you control sweetness and ingredient quality.

Can I bake the apple slices instead of frying?

You can bake the battered apple slices, but frying gives the iconic crispiness and golden color that baking usually can’t replicate. If baking, spray them generously with oil and bake at a high temperature on a wire rack for best results.

How do I get the coconut perfectly toasted?

Spread shredded coconut in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally and watch closely—it burns quickly. Toasted coconut offers a nutty crunch that really makes a difference in this recipe.

What other toppings would work well with Samoa Apple Slices?

Besides caramel, coconut, and chocolate, try chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of honey. For an adult twist, a splash of rum or bourbon infused caramel sauce would be divine.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Samoa Apple Slices: Fried Apples with Caramel, Coconut, and Chocolate Recipe a whirl. The perfect marriage of crisp, sweet, and tropical flavors wrapped in each golden slice is pure happiness on a plate. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a special occasion dessert, this recipe will quickly become a favorite that captures the joy of island flavors and southern comfort all at once. So gather your ingredients, get frying, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Print