Miniature Caramel Apples

Miniature things are always cuter. And miniature caramel apples are no exception. Not only are these little caramel apples more fun to look at, they are easier to make (in my opinion) and they taste better (in my opinion). I get so stressed out trying to make sure 99% of a "normal" caramel apple is covered in caramel and that it is smooth and flawless. Plus, when you eat a "normal" caramel apple, the ratio of apple:caramel is never quite right. I love this idea and loved it even more after I made and ate them myself. (Idea stolen, without permission, from Marti. But I'm sure she'll forgive me).Here's what you need: melon baller, toothpicks, apple, caramels, 1/2 & 1/2 or cream (I chose cream because that's what I had on hand) and toppings (I did coconut, M&M's and peanuts, because that's what I had (side note to my side note: I discovered my garlic press is a quick, easy and nearly mess-free way to crush small portions of peanuts and M&M's)).And a little helping hand to eat the toppings the entire time.
I cut as many balls from my apple as I could and then stuck a toothpick in each. Then I put 8 unwrapped caramels in a glass dish with about 1 to 1 1/4 Tablespoons of cream (it was a tad too much). 8 caramels was more than enough for one apple. I nuked it for a minute, stirred until smooth, dipped the apples in caramel, dipped the apples in a topping and then set them on wax paper to cool off. Too bad I ate the three biggest ones before they had a chance to cool. Enjoy!

More opinions: the coconut added an extra sweet flavor, the peanuts added a nice contrasting salty flavor and the M&M's added a fun crunch and lovely chocolate flavor. Mmm, all three are my favorite.