Recipe: Caramel Dipped Apple Bonbons (using dried apple, food processor)

CARAMEL DIPPED APPLE BONBONS

1 1/4 cups coarsely chopped pecans, toasted
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 of a 6 ounce package dried apples (3/4 cup)
1 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted
1 tablespoon light corn syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
FOR THE CARAMEL COATING:
1 (14-ounce) package caramel candies
3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon butter or margarine
1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans, toasted (for rolling)

Process pecans and brown sugar in food processor until nuts are ground; remove and set aside.

Process dried apples until finely chopped. Stir together pecan mixture, apples, 1 tablespoon melted butter, and next 3 ingredients until blended.

Shape into 3/4-inch balls; chill until firm.

Combine caramels, whipping cream, and 1 tablespoon butter in a heavy saucepan; cook over low heat, stirring often, until caramels and butter melt.

Dip apple-nut balls in caramel mixture, coating well. Roll in finely chopped pecans, and place on wax paper. Let stand at room temperature until firm.

Makes about 4 dozen
From: Sandy, TX - 10-25-97