Halloween Apples

Step 1: Combine sugar, corn syrup, honey and salt in a heavy-bottom 3-quart saucepan.

Step 2: Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture begins to simmer around the edges.

Step 3: Wash the sugar and syrup from the inside of the pot with a wet pastry brush or a wad of paper towel dipped in water.

Step 4: Cover and continue to cook for about 3 minutes.

Step 5: Rinse the spoon before using it again later.

Step 6: Uncover the pot and rinse the sides once more.

Step 7: Insert a candy thermometer without letting it touch the bottom of the pot.

Step 8: Cook, uncovered, without stirring until the mixture reaches 305 degrees

Step 9: Meanwhile, bring the cream to a simmer and keep it hot until needed.

Step 10: When the sugar mixture reaches 305 degrees, turn the heat off.

Step 11: Stir in the butter chunks.

Step 12: Gradually stir in the hot cream.

Step 13: Turn the heat back on under the pot and adjust it so that the mixture boils energetically.

Step 14: Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until temperature reaches 250 degrees.

Step 15: Remove from heat. Stir in the vanilla.

Step 16: Transfer the caramel to a smaller pot or heatproof bowl deep enough to dip the apples.

Step 17: Cool for 10 minutes.

Step 18: Impale each apple on a stick.

Step 19: Holding the stick, dip an apple into the caramel, allowing the excess to flow back into the pot.

Step 20: Set the apple on a sheet of waxed paper. Repeat to coat each apple.

Step 21: Let the dipped apples set until the caramel is cool and firm, at least 30 minutes

Step 22: Melt the chocolate in the top of a double boiler over barely simmering water, stirring frequently, until almost entirely melted.

Step 23: Remove from heat and stir until completely melted and warm.

Step 24: Dip each apple into the chocolate, allowing the excess chocolate to flow back into the bowl.

Step 25: If desired, sprinkle with sprinkles.

Step 26: Set the dipped apples on a tray lined with waxed paper.

Step 27: Refrigerate to set the chocolate, keep the apples fresh and crisp, and keep the chocolate from discoloring.