Easy "Candied" Apples (with Dairy Free Option)

I never was a fan of candied apples.  I always thought they were too sweet and I hated the candy part getting stuck in my teeth!  I like my version much better plus, I love peanut butter and chocolate together so this recipe is a win, win!   Also, no candy thermometer needed which makes these apples EASY!  I opted to do all of my melting on the top of the stove but in a pinch, you could use the microwave.  It would only take about 30 seconds or so.  I typically do not use microwaves but using one for this recipe would make these even easier! 

Also, I put just a bit of honey in here to give the coatings the extra sweetness without any possible bitterness that using extra Stevia would give.  The key to sweetening any recipe is to taste often and taste each layer.  

Note: You can also make this recipe dairy free by using coconut oil in the place of butter.  End product will turn out the same but with a slight taste of coconut (unless you use expeller pressed). 

Easy "Candied" Apples

2 large apples (or 3-4 small apples)

Peanut Butter Layer:

2/3 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
2 tsp butter
1-2 servings Kal Stevia (to achieve desired sweetness)
½-1 tsp honey

Outer Chocolate Layer:

1 tsp butter
2 oz Chocolate Chunks or a chocolate bar (85% Cocoa or higher)
1-2 serving Kal Stevia (to achieve desired sweetness)

*Chopped nuts or Toasted Coconut flakes

Directions:
Place apples on wax paper and insert a Popsicle stick or 2 skewers into center of apple.   Warm peanut butter and butter on top of stove until pour-able.  Remove from heat and add Stevia and honey.  Mix well.  Taste for sweetness. Pour/spread peanut butter mixture on entire apple.  Place in fridge for at least 15 minutes to let set. 

In another small pot or double boiler, slowly melt chocolate and butter.  Add Stevia.  Taste for sweetness. Pour over apples (already covered with peanut butter).  While chocolate is still wet, add chopped nuts or  toasted coconut flakes.  Refrigerate at least 20 minutes.