Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and lightly butter the paper. Set aside.
Use Fit fruit cleaner and a scrubber. Scrub/wash apples with warm water for about 30 seconds each. Place on a towel and let completely dry. Once the apples have dried, place sticks in the center of each apple.
Place the caramel in a microwavable bowl. Heat for 1 minute, stir, and microwave for an additional minute. Add additional time, if needed, until melted. You can also place the caramel in a slow cooker and let melt.
Dip apples in the caramel, leaving about one inch around the top. Hold up the apples to let any excess caramel drip off. Use a spatula to scrape the caramel off the bottom and place it on the baking sheet. If you are not dipping in chocolate, coat with any preferred toppings immediately or leave plain. Chill 5 to 10 minutes until set and remove to the counter.
If dipping in chocolate, let the caramel set completely before dipping. Melt the chocolate according to package directions. Either dip the caramel apples in the chocolate or drizzle over the top. Add any desired toppings and let set.
Notes
Storage: The apples are best eaten within 1 to 3 days. If you live in a warm or humid climate, store in the refrigerator.