Gourmet Caramel Apples

Fall has arrived. Whether it be the change in weather or the endless fall-themed activities that come with this time of year, there is something so comforting that comes with the change of seasons from Summer to Fall. One of my favorite fall recipes to make with my kids is gourmet caramel apples just like the ones you see at the mall that seem impossible to make.

Gourmet Caramel Apples are fun to make because the possibilities are endless, you can easily wrap them with cellophane and ribbon for a unique gift, and they sure are yummy!

Here's what you need:

• 5 green apples, washed and dried with stems removed
• Skewer sticks made for caramel apples or just plain ol' popsicle sticks
• 1 package of Kraft Caramel Bits or caramel squares
• Toppings of your choice. Our favorites include crushed Oreo cookies, mini M&Ms, or walnuts.
• White + milk chocolate chips, melted for drizzle

Begin by removing the stems from each apple. Wash and dry your apples well. This step is important. Your apples need to be clean and dry as it helps the caramel stick easier. Place the popsicle sticks in the middle of the apple and insert them until they are secure. Place your apples in the fridge while you prepare the caramel and toppings.

Melt your caramel according to the package directions. Stir the caramel in 30 second to 1 minute intervals until it is completely melted and easy to stir. Tip: Melt the caramel in a deep, glass measuring cup for easy dipping.

While you are melting your caramel, prepare your favorite toppings. The possibilities are endless. Our favorites include crushed Oreo cookies, mini M&Ms, and walnuts. Place your toppings in shallow, wide dishes to make for easy rolling. Cover a cookie sheet with wax paper to place your apples on.

Once your caramel is melted and your toppings are prepared, let your caramel sit for a minute before you start the dipping process. You do not want to dip your apples when the caramel is really hot or the caramel will run off and pool at the bottom of your apple. Make sure you don't let it cool too much, though.

Begin dipping each apple into the caramel until it is completely covered. Swirl it around in the caramel and then let the excess caramel run off as you spin the stick in your hands. Tap the stick on the edge of the measuring cup before placing the apple on the wax paper to set. It is important to work quickly before the caramel cools.

Now comes the fun part: adding your toppings! You want to let your apples sit for a minute after dipping them but before adding your toppings so that the caramel has a minute to set before taking on the weight of the toppings. Otherwise, your toppings will fall to the bottom of the apple.

Roll each apple into your topping, pressing down pretty generously so the topping really sticks into the caramel. Place the apple back onto the wax paper to cool completely. You can place it into the fridge to chill quickly if needed.

Melt 1/4 c. of white chocolate chips and 1/4 c. of milk chocolate chips in 15 second increments until it is melted and smooth. Drizzle each kind of chocolate over the apples while spinning it until you reach the desired amount of chocolate that you want.

Let the apples sit until they are completely cool and dry. Wrap them in cellophane and ribbon to gift to a friend or slice and enjoy!

What are your favorite fall recipes? We would love to hear your favorites! Share them with us @thepreschoolbox!