In a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, condensed milk, and vanilla. Cook over mediumlow heat, stirring frequently, until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to medium, and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture reaches 236° on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat, and let stand until temperature of mixture drops to 200°.
Insert twigs or craft sticks into apples. Quickly dip apples in caramel mixture, letting excess drip off. Place on prepared baking sheet. Cool for 10 minutes. Dip apples in chopped pecans. Store, covered, in refrigerator, up to 1 week.
Notes
*Use magnolia, crabapple or oak twigs.
Recipe by Paula Deen Magazine at https://www.pauladeenmagazine.com/pecan-coated-caramel-apples-recipe/