Gourmet Caramel Apples

These gourmet caramel apples combine the crispness of tart apples with the rich sweetness of homemade caramel, complemented by layers of chocolate and colorful candy melts. Perfect for gifting or enjoying at festive gatherings, they offer a fun and customizable dessert experience.

Ingredients (Yields 5 servings)

• 5 large Granny Smith apples

• 1 (14 oz) package individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped

• 2 tablespoons water

• 7 oz chocolate candy bar (milk or dark), broken into pieces

• 2 tablespoons shortening, divided

• 1 cup colored candy coating melts

Directions

1. Prepare the Apples: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Using a slotted spoon, dip the apples briefly into the boiling water to remove any wax. Wipe them dry and allow them to cool. Insert sticks into the apples through the cores.

2. Melt the Caramel: Place the unwrapped caramels and 2 tablespoons of water into a microwave-safe medium bowl. Microwave on high for 2 minutes; stir. Continue microwaving and stirring at 1-minute intervals until the caramel is melted and smooth.

3. Dip in Caramel: Line a baking sheet with waxed paper and coat it with cooking spray. Hold each apple by its stick and dip it into the melted caramel to coat. Place the coated apples on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate until set, about 15 minutes.

4. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate pieces and 1 tablespoon of shortening. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.

5. Dip in Chocolate: Dip each caramel-coated apple into the melted chocolate, covering the caramel layer. Return the apples to the baking sheet and refrigerate until the chocolate is set.

6. Drizzle with Candy Coating: Place the colored candy melts and the remaining 1 tablespoon of shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the candy melts are smooth. Drizzle the melted candy coating over the chocolate-covered apples using a fork or wooden stick. Refrigerate until set.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal

• Total Fat: 15g

• Saturated Fat: 7g

• Cholesterol: 5mg

• Sodium: 50mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 40g

• Dietary Fiber: 4g

• Sugars: 35g

• Protein: 2g