Caramel and White Chocolate Pretzel Covered Apples

I've been busy this afternoon making my treats for those special Valentines in my life. I decided to make these pretty apples this year. My Dad likes white chocolate, so I made his apples dipped in caramel followed by another dipping in white chocolate. Then I rolled them in crushed pretzels bites. Think he'll like it? I made my friend Randy and my brother their own specials ones too...those are coming up next. 

Caramel and White Chocolate Pretzel Covered Apples

4 extra large Granny Smith Apples
4 wooden skewers
14 ounces (1 bag) soft caramel candy (I use Kraft caramels)
2 tbsp water
1 bag of Ghirardelli White chocolate chips
2 tbsp shortening
2 cups of pretzel bites, coarsely chopped

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Spray it with a light layer of cooking spray, if desired, to prevent the apples from sticking. Wash and dry apples and remove stems. Insert your skewers or pop sticks. Set aside.

Place the unwrapped caramels and the water in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 minute, then stir, then microwave for and additional minute or until completely melted. The caramel should be smooth and liquid by the end.

Hold an apple by the skewer and dip it in the caramel, tilting the bowl at an angle and rotating the apple to cover it completely with a smooth, even layer. Bring it out of the caramel and twirl it upside down to remove excess, then set it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining apples. Place the caramel-covered apples in the refrigerator to set for at least 30 minutes.

Combine the chocolate and the shortening in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave until melted, stirring every 45 seconds. Dip the caramel-covered apple in the chocolate. If necessary, spoon some chocolate over the top to ensure the apple is completely covered with white chocolate. Immediately dip the apple in crushed pretzels and roll until covered.

Place back on the baking sheet and drizzle on extra chocolate, allowing it to run down the sides. Simply take a spoonful of your white chocolate and drizzle while holding it about 6 inches above your apples.Repeat with remaining apples. Chill apples in refrigerator until completely set, about 45 minutes. Tie with a pretty bow. Store apples in the refrigerator.

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