Goo-lish Caramel Apple Slices

1 (14 ounce) bag vanilla caramels (about 48)
3 tablespoons water
3 tart green apples, cored, peeled, and sliced
1 cup semisweet chocolate pieces (6 ounces)
1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
1/4 cup nut topping

Put unwrapped caramels and the water in a medium saucepan. Cook until caramels are melted and smooth, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Arrange apple slices on a pizza plate or pan. Use a spoon to drizzle caramel mixture over apples.

Put chocolate pieces and shortening in small saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat until mixture is melted and smooth, stirring constantly. Use another spoon to drizzle the chocolate mixture over the caramel-covered apples. Sprinkle with nut topping. Let stand at room temperature for up to 10 minutes.

Makes 6 to 8 servings.

Nutritional facts per serving: calories: 487, total fat: 20g, saturated fat: 5g, cholesterol: 0mg, sodium: 223mg, carbohydrate: 80g, fiber: 3g, protein: 5g