📋 Instructions

1. 1Prep the apples — Wash and dry 4 apples, then cut each into 8 wedges and remove the core. Toss the wedges in a bowl with 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1 tbsp cold water for 30 seconds, then drain and pat completely dry with paper towels.
2. 2Whip the spread — Stir together 1 cup peanut butter and 2 tbsp softened butter in a small bowl until smooth and glossy, about 1 minute. This loosens the peanut butter so it spreads without tearing the apple skin.
3. 3Spread the faces — Lay the apple wedges peel-side down on a parchment-lined tray and spread about 1 tbsp of the peanut butter mixture over the cut face of each wedge, leaving a small border at the bottom for the mouth.
4. 4Chill to set — Slide the tray into the refrigerator for 10 minutes, until the peanut butter is firm to the touch but still slightly tacky, which is when decorations hold best.
5. 5Add the teeth — Press 2 to 3 mini marshmallows along the bottom edge of each wedge to make a jagged grin, pushing gently so they sink about a quarter inch into the spread.
6. 6Place the eyes — Set 2 candy eyeballs near the top of each wedge, pressing lightly for 2 seconds each. Add 2 mini chocolate chips above the eyes for hair if you like.
7. 7Finish and serve — Sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky salt over the tray if using, then serve right away or chill up to 1 hour before the party. Arrange them standing on their peel edges so the faces stay upright.