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Caramel Apples & Candied Walnuts

Get the kids involved with creating their own yummy masterpieces you can share with friends and family.
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Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

  • 8 lollipop or wooden craft sticks
  • 8 Granny Smith apples or apples of choice
  • 22 oz caramels, unwrapped
  • 4 tbsp heavy cream
  • 3 cups chocolate chips or candy melts be creative and try white chocolate or candy melts which come in a variety of colors so you can really get creative
  • 2 cups assorted toppings try anything from MnMs, to snack-size pretzels, mini marshmallows, or even gumdrops

Candied Walnuts

  • 2 tbsp oil use vegetable or grapeseed for a neutral flavor that won't affect the flavor
  • 4 cups walnuts or preferred nuts like almonds or pecans
  • 6 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper optional of course, and adjust the level of heat to taste

Instructions
 

  • Scrub apples under very hot water to remove any wax coating and dry well. Line baking sheet with wax paper and insert 1 stick into stem end of each apple. 
    Microwave caramels and cream in a large, microwave-safe bowl for 1 minute and stir. Microwave in 10 - 20 second intervals, stirring in between until smooth, making sure not to burn it. 
    Dip each apple into the melted caramel and place on the sheet, then chill for around 30 minutes until set. Heat candy melts in the microwave according to package directions and prepare assorted toppings. 

Candied Walnuts

  • In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and add the walnuts, stirring with a wooden spoon to coat them. Add the sugar and spices, stirring constantly for 8 minutes until the nuts are well coated and the sugar has caramelized. Be careful not to burn and adjust the heat as needed. 
    This a great recipe to get the kids involved. Whether it be unwrapping the caramels, keeping an eye so they don't eat them all, or simply having fun decorating their own apple and getting creative with the different colored candy melts, even using spoons or forks to draw and make patterns. Not only is it tasty, but it’s also a simple and fun activity to get everyone involved and make some memories.