Caramel Apples

KIPP Academy of Opportunity fifth graders celebrated halloween with an $80 average paycheck party. Our bundles of energy contained their excitement through five classes, working hard even though it was obvious their mind was on the festivities planned for the day. Along with watching halloween themed movies, dancing to thrilling and enjoying coveted social time, our KIPPsters made their own caramel apples. This was a fun fall group activity because kids were able to choose their toppings and decorate their own apples to take home. After the kids had their messy fun, the teachers dunked away. As a lover of pecans, I found the apple, caramel, pecan combination heavenly on halloween. 

Ingredients:
8 small apples, washed, well dried
1 bag (11 oz.)  Caramel Candy
2 Tbsp. water

Toppings (mini-chocolate chips, pecan pieces, walnuts, coconut, sprinkles)

Popsicle sticks

Directions:
1. Cover large plate with parchment paper. Insert one wooden pop stick into stem end of an apple. 

2. Place caramel in medium saucepan. Add water; cook on medium-low heat 3 min. or until caramel bits are completely melted, stirring constantly. You can also microwave the caramel candies for 2 minutes in a microwave safe bowl. Warning, caramel will be VERY hot. Stir gently, I learned the hard way.
3. Dip apples into melted caramel until evenly coated, spooning caramel over apples if necessary. Allow excess caramel to drip off. Dip in desired topping. Do not roll in the mini-chocolate chips. This will create a melted mess. Place on parchment paper. Ideally, refrigerate at least 1 hour, but you probably won't be able to wait. If you manage to wait, remove from refrigerator 15 min. before serving.