Mini Butterscotch Apples

 Happy Halloween.

Adapted from: I Am Baker (blog)
Number of servings: Makes approximately 20-24 mini apples

Ingredients

• 3 large Granny Smith apples (each yielded 8 mini apples)
• 2 cups butterscotch morsels (Guittard was used here)
• 1 tablespoon shortening (can also use oil)
• Melon baller
• Cleaned twigs, sticks or cake-pop sticks
• lemon juice (optional)

Directions

1. Place parchment paper on a baking or cookie sheet.
   
2. Using melon baller, scoop out sections of the apple. One apple typically yields about 6-8 mini apples. Work quickly as you don't want the apples to brown. If you have lemon juice on hand, sprinkle it over the apples (this helps).
3. Insert the twig/stick into the mini apple, being sure not to go in all the way.
4. Melt butterscotch and shortening in the microwave. Heat for 1 minute, stir, then heat for 10 second intervals until fully melted. Transfer melted butterscotch to a tall glass. Work quickly.
5. Important: dry mini apples off with paper towel.
6. Briefly dip apples into the butterscotch, until covered. Lift up and let excess butterscotch drain off. Set on parchment-lined cookie sheet.
7. Refrigerate or leave on counter.
8. Suggestion: you can also drizzle with chocolate or colorful candy melts. Orange and black would be fun for Halloween, or if you have a San Francisco Giants fan in the house. [Ed. note: Dodgers haven't won since '88, Dodgers haven't won since '88, Dodgers...]