Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line cookie baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium size mixing bowl, combine the flour, cream of tartar, soda, and salt: set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and shortening together until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and beat until well combined. Beat in the eggs, one at a time. Add the flour mixture in 3 parts, beating just until well combined.
Stir in the caramel chips, apples, and nuts.
In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. The amount of cinnamon added varies by personal preference. The more cinnamon added, the darker the cookies are on top.
Using a small scoop, shape dough into even size balls. Roll the balls in the sugar-cinnamon mixture. Place balls onto baking sheets about 3 inches apart.
Bake 8-9 minutes or until edges become light golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to set on baking sheet for a few minutes until bottom is firm. Cookies will become harder as they cool. Transfer to a wire cooling rack.
Makes about 3 dozen