How fun are these?????

I happen to be a HUGE fan of caramel apples. But as my friends and I discussed at a local Apple Festival this year — caramel apples seem so much more enjoyable (and easier to bite into!) when the apples are sliced instead of whole. So when I saw this recipe recently in “Taste of Home”, I knew I had to give it a try!

But in addition to topping the apples with caramel, they also suggest melting some marshmallows for an extra sweet drizzle, and then sprinkling them with chocolate chips and chopped peanuts. I ended up taking a shortcut and just using caramel sauce (like you buy for ice cream) instead of unwrapping and melting a bag of caramels. But chose to stick with their simple topping ingredients, since those happen to be favorites. If you want to branch out, though, I’ve included a list of other fun topping ideas below.

Let’s just say — I think this was my speediest photography job yet. Click. Click. Eat. YUM. :)

Apple Nachos Recipe
(Adapted from Taste of Home)

Ingredients:

• 4 medium tart apple (I used Granny Smith), peeled, cored and sliced very thin
• juice of 1-2 lemons
• 1 jar caramel sauce (or melt together 36 caramels and 1 Tbsp. water in microwave)
• 30 large marshmallows
• 1/3 cup butter, cubed
• 1/3 cup chopped peanuts
• 1/3 cup miniature chocolate chips

Method:

After slicing the apples, immediately dip them in lemon juice (or give them a good sprinkle) so that they do not brown. Set aside.

In a large saucepan, melt marshmallows and butter over medium heat, stirring frequently. Remove and set aside.

Arrange apple slices on a large platter. Drizzle with caramel, and then with the melted marshmallow mixture. Sprinkle with peanuts and chocolate chips. Serve immediately while the caramel is still warm.

Ali’s Tip:

Other fun toppings for these might include:

• Heath Bar (toffee) chocolate chips
• shredded coconut
• crushed pretzels
• sprinkles
• melted peanut butter and chocolate mixture