What do you need to make chocolate cover apples?

Ingredients:

* Apples: Choose firm, crisp apples with good flavor. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are good options.

* Chocolate: You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even a combination!

* Melting Chocolate: Look for baking bars or chocolate chips specifically designed for melting.

* Chocolate Candy Melts: These are formulated for dipping and have a smoother texture than baking chocolate.

* Chocolate Bark: This is a flat chocolate sheet that you can melt and dip.

* Optional Additions:

* Sprinkles: Colorful sprinkles, chocolate sprinkles, or even chopped nuts.

* Toppings: Crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, dried fruits, coconut flakes.

* Flavorings: Vanilla extract, almond extract, peppermint extract.

Equipment:

* Sharp Knife: For cutting the apples.

* Skewers or Popsicle Sticks: For holding the apples during dipping.

* Double Boiler or Heat-Safe Bowl: To melt the chocolate.

* Baking Sheet Lined with Wax Paper or Parchment Paper: To cool the dipped apples.

* Optional:

* Candy Thermometer: Helps ensure the chocolate melts at the correct temperature.

* Small Bowl: For holding sprinkles or toppings.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples: Wash and dry the apples. Cut off the stem end and insert a skewer or popsicle stick into the top.

2. Melt the Chocolate: Follow the package directions for melting your chosen chocolate. It's crucial to melt the chocolate slowly and gently to prevent burning.

3. Dip the Apples: Holding the apple by the skewer, dip it completely into the melted chocolate. Gently tap the skewer to remove any excess chocolate.

4. Add Toppings (Optional): While the chocolate is still wet, roll the apple in sprinkles, chopped nuts, or other toppings.

5. Cool and Set: Place the dipped apples on the prepared baking sheet to cool and set. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes for faster setting.

6. Enjoy! Chocolate-covered apples are best enjoyed fresh.

Tips:

* Temperature is key: Chocolate melts best at a low temperature. Use a double boiler or a microwave on low power.

* Stir frequently: Don't let the chocolate scorch! Stir it regularly as it melts.

* Use good-quality chocolate: This will make a big difference in the taste and texture of your finished apples.

* Store properly: Chocolate-covered apples can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.