Homemade Caramel Apples

Prepare apples by bring a large pot of water to a boil. Insert wooden sticks into the apple and dunk into the boiling water for 5 seconds. Remove and wipe with a paper towel to remove any wax.

In a heavy-bottomed pot combine the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil while stirring constantly. Once at a boil reduce heat to medium and cook until mixture is 245ºF or until a teaspoon of the mixture forms a firm ball when dropped into a glass of cold water. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

Dip each apple in the caramel and set on a piece of parchment paper. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts if desired. Let cool before serving.