Ghoulish Caramel Apples Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 large tart apples
• 4 Popsicle sticks
• 4 orange candy slices
• 1 piece black rope licorice
• 1 piece red rope licorice
• 1 cup flaked coconut
• 3 drops green food coloring, optional
• 1 package (14 ounces) caramels
• 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 8 Skittles bite-size candies
• 1 tube decorating icing in color of your choice, optional
• 4 gumdrops

Directions

• Line a baking sheet with waxed paper and grease the paper; set aside. Wash and thoroughly dry apples. Insert a Popsicle stick into the top of each; set aside.
• For eyes, cut candy slices horizontally in half. For eyebrows, cut black licorice in half lengthwise; cut each half into four 2-in. pieces. For mouths, cut red licorice into sixteen 1/4-in. pieces. For hair, tint coconut with food coloring if desired.
• In a microwave-safe bowl, heat caramels and cream, uncovered, on high for 1 minute; stir. Microwave 30-45 seconds longer or until melted; stir until smooth.
• Dip one apple into caramel mixture, turning to coat. Place on prepared pan. Immediately decorate faces with candy slices and licorice pieces. For eyes, press Skittles into caramel below candy slices or attach to candy slices with decorating icing if desired. For nose, press a gumdrop into caramel. Sprinkle coconut on top for hair. Repeat with remaining apples, rewarming caramel mixture if needed. Yield: 4 servings.

Ghoulish Caramel Apples published in Simple & Delicious September/October 2007, p13