Yummiest Caramel Apples

(Photo via www.gourmetchocolatefoods.com)

I got this from my friend Cheree who got it from her friend Brooke. Anyway, you know the recipe has to be good if it keeps getting passed along. I made some of these last year and I plan to make them again very soon. So yummy!

CARAMEL APPLES

4 large, firm green apples(store at room temperature)
1 bag white chocolate chips*
1 1/2 Tbls. Crisco1 (14 oz.)
1 bag Kraft caramels (comes with sticks)
2 Tbls. room tempurature water
parchment paper
Rice Krispies*
Cinnamon and Sugar

Wash and dry apples and remove stems. Push stick through top center of apples about 1/2 way down. Unwrap caramels and combine with water in a microwave-safe bowl for 30 second intervals, stirring each time until creamy. Immediately roll apples in caramel, coating completely. Place on parchment paper.

Melt chocolate chips and shortening also in a microwave-safe bowl for same 30 second intervals, stirring each time. Roll apples, covered in caramel into Rice Krispies, then in the white chocolate chips, then cover with cinnamon and sugar. Place on paper in the fridge until serving. Cut into slices for easier serving and eating.

*You can also use milk chocolate, peanut butter or mint chocolate chips. Can also top with nuts, sprinkles, cookie crumbs, M&M's, Reeses Pieces.