• 6 apples (I prefer to use smaller apples for my smaller kids).  We used new season galas.  Any fresh, in season, crunchy apple will do the trick.
• Almond butter or sunflower seed butter (optional)
• a batch of home made chocolate (refer to this post / video for the recipe) or a 100g block of good quality dark chocolate – preferably one using a natural sweetener eg maple syrup, honey or coconut syrup.  We had a couple of luvju bars from loving earth on hand and have used these.  IGA sell the FAIR brand of chocolate which is an option.
• 6 craft (icy pole) sticks or we used kebab skewers trimmed down.

Directions:

1. Insert wooden craft sticks or lollipop sticks into the cores of the apples at the stem and set aside.
2. If using bought chocolate, break into pieces and gently melt in a double boiler.  Or, place the chocolate into a metal or glass bowl and set over a pan of barely simmering water.  Stir frequently until melted. Remove from the heat and allow to cool a little.
3. While this is happening if you’re using the nut or seed butter, cover the apples with this.
4. Dip apples into the melted chocolate, turning to coat completely
5. Then, if you like dip or roll in chopped nuts, then place on a sheet of waxed paper. Repeat with remaining apples.  Place apples in the fridge to set until the chocolate is firm, about 20 minutes, before serving.

If you’d like to dress them up add a fun ribbon for a more festive touch!  Enjoy.