Chocolate apples

• milk chocolate↗200g g

  finely chopped

• apples↗4 small
• sugar threads↗

  finely chopped nuts, sprinkles, pieces of honey sticks

• chocolate↗50g of each white and dark g

  chopped (optional)

• skewers4

  wooden sticks or large lollipop sticks

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Place the chocolate in a heat‑proof bowl set over a saucepan with just a little simmering water, making sure the bowl does not touch the water. Stir frequently for about 10 minutes until the chocolate is completely melted, smooth and glossy. Remove from the heat. Alternatively, melt the chocolate in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between bursts, until melted.

2. 2

   Put the apples in a heat‑proof bowl and pour over them boiling water from a kettle. Carefully drain the water and rinse under hot water to remove any residual wax on the skin. Pat dry with a paper towel, remove the stems and insert a lollipop stick or skewer where the stem was.

3. 3

   Line a baking tray or large board with parchment paper. Holding the apples by the sticks, dip them into the melted chocolate. If desired, use a spoon to coat the tops. When fully coated, lift the apples a few seconds above the bowl so excess chocolate drips back, then place them stick‑up on the prepared tray. Let set for about one to two minutes.

4. 4

   Transfer decorations to separate bowls. When the chocolate on the apples is just beginning to set but not hard, sprinkle the decorations onto the apples. Holding them from the side, rotate with the stick to coat completely. Return them to the tray and let sit until fully set.

5. 5

   If using white and dark chocolate for decoration, melt each separately as in step 1, then let them cool slightly. First melt the dark chocolate, and once the chocolate‑coated apples have set, use a teaspoon to drizzle this chocolate over them, again holding the stick so the apple stays side‑up while you rotate. Place a sheet of parchment underneath to catch drips. Return to the tray and let set, then repeat the process with the white chocolate. Store in an airtight container in a cool place for up to two days.