Caramel Apples

• Use a combination of different colored apples: red, green and yellow.
• Choose uniform-sized apples--small apples work best.
• Substitute chocolate caramels for traditional.
• Before dipping apples in caramel, set them on an even surface and cut half-inch slices in the top of each apple to ensure that the sticks poke straight up.
• Dip apples in one quick motion; let excess caramel drip off. Holding apple upright, press toppings into caramel to hold them in place.
• Use latex gloves (available at drugstores) when pressing on toppings.
• Use a pastry bag with a small tip and melted chocolate to make polka dots.
• Set dipped apples on wax squares or parchment paper.
• And remember: caramel apples are always best eaten the same day they are made!

Toppings:

• Chopped nuts
• Toasted coconut
• Miniature chocolate morsels
• Chopped candy bars
• Hot cinnamon candies
• Dried fruit
• Licorice
• Sprinkles
• Popcorn
• Crumbled crackers
• Crushed cookies 

Caramel Flavorings:

• Mint or Peppermint
• Banana
• Orange Liqueur

Make your own caramel (and avoid having to unwrap all those individual caramels!) with this recipe and Advice article.