4 or 5 apples, washed and dried, stems removed
1 14oz. pkg caramel candies, unwrapped
1/2 tsp. salt
2 Tbsp. water
various toppings: sprinkles and non-pareils, chocolate chips, finely chopped nuts, coconut, small or crushed candies, etc.

Insert wooden skewers or popsicle sticks into the stem end of each apple.

Heat caramels, salt and water in the top of a double boiler until melted and smooth, stirring frequently. Alternately, you can heat in an electric crock-pot.

If using a double boiler, remove pan from stove, but keep sauce over the hot water. If using a crock-pot, keep heated.

Spoon caramel sauce over apple until completely coated.

Immediately roll in or sprinkle with toppings of choice and place on waxed paper to cool.

(If you are doing this with kids, it might be helpful to make sure they have their toppings already picked out, on waxed paper, on a plate, and ready to go, as caramel coating can start to harden rather quickly).

Refrigerate until coating is firm (if you can wait!) and eat. Yum!