Chocolate Caramel Apples

I found this in a Taste of Home Magazine (Oct./Nov. 2002). I haven't tried it yet, but plan on trying it for Halloween! I guessed on the prep-time.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 1 (14 ounce) package  caramels
• 2  tablespoons water
• 4  wooden sticks
• 4  large tart apples
• 2  cups  chopped pecans or 2  cups peanuts
• 1  cup  semi-sweet chocolate chips (6 oz.)
• 1  teaspoon shortening
• 1  cup  English toffee bits or 1  cup  almond brickle chips

Directions

1. In a microwave safe bowl, combine the caramels and water.
2. Microwave, uncovered, on high for 1 minute; stir.
3. Microwave 30-45 seconds longer or until caramels are melted.
4. Insert wooden sticks into apples.
5. Dip apples into the caramel mixture, turning to coat.
6. Coat with nuts; set on waxed paper to cool.
7. Melt chocolate chips and shortening; drizzle over apples.
8. Sprinkle with toffee bits.
9. Set on waxed paper to cool.
10. Cut into wedges to serve.