Caramel Apples

6 large McIntosh Apples
6 popsicle sticks

2 cups sugar

2 cups half and half cream

1 cup light corn syrup

1/2 cup butter, cubed

Line a baking sheet with waxed paper and grease the paper; set aside. Wash and thoroughly dry apples. Insert a popsicle stick into each apple; place on prepared pan. Chill. In a heavy 3 quart saucepan, combine the sugar, cream, corn syrup, and butter; bring to a boil over medium high heat. Cook and stir until a candy thermometer reads 245 degrees, about 1 hour. Remove from the heat. Working quickly, dip each apple into hot caramel mixture to completely coat. Place apples on prepared pan to cool.