Homemade Caramel Apples

• 6 small tart apples, such as Granny Smith
• 6 wooden sticks (popsicle sticks or chopsticks)
• 1 (11 oz) bag soft caramel candies, unwrapped (about 40)
• 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• Optional toppings: chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, crushed cookies

1. 1Wash and dry the apples completely; any waxy coating keeps the caramel from sticking. Pull off the stems and push a stick firmly into the top of each.
2. 2Line a baking sheet with parchment and grease it lightly. Put toppings in shallow bowls.
3. 3Melt the caramels and cream in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring often, until smooth, about 8–10 minutes (or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring each time).
4. 4Tilt the pan and dip each apple, turning to coat. Let the extra drip off and scrape the bottom on the pan's edge.
5. 5Roll in toppings right away, then set on the parchment. Chill 15 minutes to set.

Tap a step to mark it done.