Chocolate and Peanut Butter Dipped Apples

Ingredients

• 10-12 medium apples, stems removed
• 10-12 wooden popsicle sticks
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 2/3 cups peanut butter chips, divided
• 1/4 cup shortening, plus
• 2 tablespoons shortening, divided (do not use butter, margarine, spread or oil)

Directions

1. 1

   Line tray with parchment paper or wax paper.

2. 2

   Wash apples; dry thoroughly and insert wooden stick into stem end of each apple; place on prepared tray.

3. 3

   Place chocolate chips, 2/3 cup peanut butter chips and 1/4 cup shortening in medium microwave-safe bowl.

4. 4

   Microwave at MEDIUM (50%) 1 minute; stir.

5. 5

   If necessary, microwave at MEDIUM an additional 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each heating, just until chips are melted when stirred.

6. 6

   Dip bottom three-fourths of each apple into mixture. Twirl and gently shake to remove excess; return to prepared tray.

7. 7

   Place remaining 1 cup peanut butter chips and remaining 2 tablespoons shortening in small microwave-safe bowl.

8. 8

   Microwave at MEDIUM 30 seconds; stir.

9. 9

   If necessary, microwave at MEDIUM an additional 15 seconds at a time, stirring after each heating, just until chips are melted when stirred.

10. 10

    Spoon over top section of each apple, allowing to drip down sides. Refrigerate until ready to serve.