Maggoty apples

Method

• step 1

  Core the apples, starting at the base and trying to keep the stalk ends intact. Use a blunt table knife or melon baller to scoop out any remaining bits of seeds and core if you need to. You can also use a metal skewer to make 1 or 2 holes in the sides. Brush the cut parts of the apples with lemon juice and put on a plate or board.

• step 2

  Put the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water to melt. Once melted, stir in the puffed rice, then remove from the heat. Using a teaspoon, pack the chocolate and puffed rice mixture into the apples, sticking a few into the smaller holes and on the top to look like they’re crawling out. Transfer the apples to the fridge for around 20 mins to set.

• step 3

  Spoon any remaining mixture into a mini muffin tin lined with paper petit four cases and put in the fridge to set along with the apples.

• step 4

  Once the chocolate has set, peel away the paper cases and put the ‘maggot balls’ around the apples. Add a few wriggly jelly worms too, if you dare.