1. Rinse apples well and dry completely. You want to make sure you do this step so the wax will be removed from the apple, allowing the caramel to stick better. Twist the apple stem off and stick the caramel apple stick about halfway down into the apple.

2. Spray a baking sheet well. You can also butter it down – make sure to do an extra coating. Don’t use wax paper.

3. To make the caramel, heat a saucepan over medium heat. Mix the corn syrup, butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Stir constantly. Allow the butter to melt. Using a moistened pastry brush, brush down the sides of the pot to remove excess caramel. Attach a candy thermometer to the pot. It’s important to ensure the thermometer isn’t touching the bottom of the pot.

(*Note: You can use a meat thermometer in lieu of the candy thermometer. You just need to ensure it has a high enough range in temperature to go up to at least 240 degrees).

4. Stop stirring. Let the sauce cook and boil until it reaches 240 degrees (about 15 minutes). The time varies depending on your stove, so make sure to keep an eye on the caramel.

5. Once it’s reached 240 degrees, remove from heat and add vanilla. Do not over mix as this will cause air bubbles. Allow caramel to cool for at least 15 minutes, or until is slightly thick.

6. Dip the apples in the caramel. To do this, tip the saucepan slightly with one hand as you lift the apple up and swirl around in the pan to coat it with caramel. If you desire toppings, immediately roll the caramel apples in the chopped nuts or Oreos. Allow the apple to set completely before drizzling chocolate. (*To drizzle chocolate, use a piping bag and squeeze chocolate onto the apple, moving the piping bag in back and forth motions, turning the apple while doing so.)

7. To serve, place on wax paper; even cooled caramel will stick to plates. Enjoy your delicious caramel apples!