Caramel Apples

Wash and dry the apples to remove all wax. (Caramel will not stick if there is wax on the apples.) Remove the stems and pierce the top with a skewer.

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir until the sugar has melted and the mixture is smooth.

Gently bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. To test if the caramel is ready, drop a small amount of caramel into a cup of cold water. The caramel is ready when you can immediately form a firm ball of caramel with your fingers. Increase the cooking time, if needed, by one minute at a time until you reach the 'firm ball' stage. Remove the caramel mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla.

Swirl each apple in the caramel until it is coated. Let the excess drip into the saucepan, then place the apple on the cookie sheet.

Refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving.

Add more deliciousness to your caramel apples by dipping the bottom and sides of the apple into M&M-like vegan candy, melted vegan marshmallow sauce, candy sprinkles, nuts, sugar, pretzel pieces, coconut, mini vegan chocolate chips, cookie crumbs, cereal, or any other ingredient that appeals to you!