chocolate covered caramel appelThis time of year always brings back great childhood memories of my dad taking me to an old-timey candy shop outside Chicago known for their fresh caramel apples. Every fall, it was a tradition to go in and get a couple of them. Sometimes, for an extra special treat, we would get one or two that weren't only coated in fresh caramel, but also had a layer of chocolate. To me, that was always the ultimate!!

Yeah, they sell apples like this in the grocery store these days, but I'm convinced you haven't experienced a caramel apple until you've had one that fresh. Hence, a homemade chocolate caramel apple recipe anyone can easily DIY any day, any time of the year!

Chocolate Caramel Apples adapted from TasteofHome.com

Ingredients

  • 1 package (14 ounces) caramels
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 4 wooden sticks
  • 4 large tart apples (like Granny Smith)
  • 2 cups chopped pecans or peanuts
  • 1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon shortening
  • 1 cup English toffee bits or almond brickle chips

Directions

  1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramels and water. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 45 seconds; stir. Microwave 20-40 seconds longer or until the caramels are melted; stir until smooth.
  2. Insert wooden sticks into apples; dip apples into the caramel mixture, turning to coat. Coat with nuts; set on waxed paper to cool.
  3. Meanwhile, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Drizzle over apples. Sprinkle with toffee bits or almond brickle chips. Place on waxed paper to cool. Cut into wedges to serve. Makes 8 servings.

 

Image via Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau/Flickr