Custom Caramel Apples

Ingredients:

6 small Granny Smith apples

6 clean sticks or twigs

1 bag (11 ounces) caramel bits

2 tablespoons heavy cream

1 tablespoon water

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3 ounces milk chocolate

2 teaspoons shortening

1 cup colored candy coating melts

finely chopped toffee

chopped pecans

Directions:

Bring a pot of water to a boil; dip the apples in and out of the boiling water with a large sieve or slotted spoon. Dry with a cotton towel. (This process removes wax from the apples and helps the caramel adhere to the apples).

Insert the sticks into the center of each apple and line a tray with parchment paper. Microwave caramel bits, cream and water on high for 1 minute. Stir and repeat the process for 30 seconds. Stir until smooth and coat each apple. Roll wet caramel-covered apples in toffee bits and nuts.

In a small bowl, combine the milk chocolate with the shortening and microwave on low for 30 seconds. Stir until smooth or repeat the process if chocolate is not melted. In a second bowl, melt the candy discs for 30 seconds. Stir until smooth or repeat the process if necessary. Using a fork, drizzle the sides of the apples with chocolate in a random pattern.