Caramel Apple Sundaes

There's something about gooey caramel apples that just speak to me. They're such a simple treat, yet they pull on the heart strings (and braces) of people everywhere. Because they're just. that. good. But the old caramel apple got a makeover at my place this past weekend. And here's what she looks like now:

Those, my friends, are caramel apple sundaes in all of their glory. The concept is simple -- a hollowed out apple filled with vanilla ice cream and topped with caramel and walnuts. I followed Martha Stewart's recipe with some notable changes to the caramel that didn't work (i.e., I replaced the white sugar with brown, and used almond milk instead of heavy cream). While the caramel tasted great, it never thickened up like a more traditional sauce should -- as indicated by the pool of caramel you see above. I recommend going with a recipe you know works. There's also the option of going the jarred route. Trader Joe's makes a pretty good fleur de sel caramel sauce.

This dessert is not heart-shaped. Nor does it involve chocolate. But I think it's the perfect -- albeit nontraditional -- Valentine's Day treat.

Are you planning on making a homemade dessert on Valentine's Day?