Caramel Apples

Recipe by Dinner at the Zoo

These homemade caramel apples look so impressive, but are quite easy to make. Dip your caramel apples in melted chocolate and roll them in toppings.

Ingredients

• 4 lollipop or wooden craft sticks
• 4 granny Smith apples (stems removed)
• 11 ounce package of caramels (unwrapped)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (can also use water)
• 1½ cups chocolate chips or candy melts (white, dark or milk chocolate, or a combination)
• 1 cup assorted toppings (such as chopped nuts and candies)

Method

1. Scrub each apple under very hot running water to remove any wax coating. Dry each apple.
2. Line tray or baking sheet with wax paper. Insert 1 stick into stem end of each apple. 
3. Microwave caramels and cream in large, microwave-safe bowl for 1 minute; stir. Microwave in additional 10- to 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
4. Dip each apple in melted caramel; scrape excess caramel from bottoms. 
5. Place each apple on the baking sheet. Chill until set, about 30 minutes.
6. Heat the chocolate or candy melts in the microwave in 30 second increments until melted, stir until smooth.
7. Dip each apple halfway into the chocolate, letting excess chocolate drip off. Roll each apple into selected toppings.
8. Chill until apples are completely set, then serve, or store in the refrigerator covered for up to one week.

View the recipe instructions at Dinner at the Zoo