Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly butter the paper. Set aside.
Use Fit fruit cleaner and a scrubber. Then scrub/wash apples with warm water for about 30 seconds. Then place on a towel and allow to completely dry. Once the apples have dried, place sticks in the center of the apple.
Place the caramel in a microwavable bowl. Heat for 1 minute, stir and then microwave an additional minute. Add additional time if needed, until it is melted. You can also place the caramel in a slow cooker and allow to melt.
Dip the apples in the caramel, leaving about one inch around the top. Hold up the apples to allow any excess to drip off and then use a spatula to scrape the caramel off the bottom. Then place on the baking sheet. If you are not dipping in chocolate, coat with any preferred toppings immediately or leave plain. Then place in the refrigerator for 5-10 minutes to help them set. Do not store there.
If dipping in chocolate, allow the caramel to completely set before dipping. Then melt the chocolate according to package directions. Then either dip the caramel apples in the chocolate or drizzle over top. Then add desired toppings and allow to set.
Notes
Best to eat within 1-3 days. If you live in a warm or humid climate, store in the refrigerator.