Raw Vegan Candied Apples

 With fall upon us, and the ever-growing supply of pumpkin recipes, I wanted to dig deep and think of something a little more creative. So I got to thinking about other fall flavors that are often over-looked; Apples, obvi. But, then I got to thinking about Halloween and all of the candy and treats. And on top of all of this, I wanted something quick, easy, and f'ing delicious. Sooo.. what does that leave me with? A childhood favorite of course! These Caramel, chocolate shell-covered apples bring back all the childhood, fall, halloween feels! They are so quick, easy, versatile, and taste like a dream. They are obviously a healthier alternative to the typical fall/halloween candies and treats but you would never guess it - great for all the mommas out there trying to avoid processed sugars.

Feel free to get creative and top these bad boys with whatever you like! I wanted a nice crunch and originally wanted to use chopped peanuts, but I was out, so I opted for chopped almonds and they worked out perfect.   They ended up being an awesome flavor combination with the chocolate drizzle.

Shredded coconut, chocolate chips, other chopped nuts & seeds, peanut butter drizzle.. the options are endless with these! Have fun with them!

Quick tip - if the whole apple is obnoxious to eat, or too difficult for little ones, you can always slice the apple, dip the individual slices in the caramel, chocolate, & toppings and set in the fridge.

Raw Vegan Caramel:

• 1 cup dates, soaked

• 1/4 tsp sea salt

• 1 Tbsp melted coconut oil

• 1/4 cup nut milk of choice

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Stevia/maple syrup (optional)

Once dates have been soaked in hot water for about 30 minutes (unless they are already very soft), place in high-speed blender. Add coconut oil, vanilla, sea salt, and blend until smooth. You'll have to scrap down the sides of the blender and continue blending for a couple minutes. Then, sparingly add the nut milk, a little at a time. Keep blending until you reach a thick consistency. Feel free to add a little maple syrup or stevia if you like it a little sweeter. Set aside in fridge.

Chocolate Shell

• 1/2 cup melted coconut oil

• 4 Tbsp Raw Cacao Powder

• 2 Tbsp Maple Syrup

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of sea salt

Combine all ingredients together in bowl and whisk until smooth.

Assembling the apples

1. I used a knife to poke a hole in the core of the apple and then stuck cake pop sticks into each one. Then, using a spatula or knife, spread some of the caramel sauce onto the apples, trying to cover the completely.

2. Roll the apples into your toppings of choice.

3. Drizzle with the chocolate shell and enjoy!

4. Any leftovers store well in the fridge!