why make this recipe
Classic Candy Apples are a fun and tasty treat that brings back childhood memories. They’re popular at fairs and carnivals, and making them at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sweet, crunchy snack that’s perfect for parties, Halloween, or just a fun day at home.
how to make Classic Candy Apples
Ingredients
- 6 firm, crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- Red food coloring (optional, about 10-15 drops)
- 6 wooden sticks
- Pinch of cinnamon or ground cloves (for spiced candy apples)
- Dark or white chocolate for drizzling (once candy is set)
- Crushed nuts (peanuts, almonds, pistachios) for coating
- Alternative food coloring (green, blue, rainbow)
- Erythritol or keto-friendly sweetener (for sugar-free option; adjust cooking times)
Directions
- Wash and thoroughly dry each apple to remove any wax. This helps the candy stick better. Insert wooden sticks securely into the stem end of each apple. Make sure they are completely dry.
- In a medium saucepan, mix sugar, corn syrup, water, and vinegar. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring it to a boil without stirring. Cook until it reaches 300°F (the hard-crack stage) on a candy thermometer for a crisp, shiny coating.
- Remove the syrup from heat and quickly stir in your choice of food coloring and, if you want, a few drops of vanilla or almond extract. Be quick, as the syrup hardens fast once off the heat.
- Holding the wooden stick, dip each apple into the hot candy syrup, swirling to coat evenly. Let the excess drip back into the pan. Place the dipped apples onto a greased or parchment-lined surface to cool and harden.
- Let the candy apples sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until the coating is fully hardened and glossy. Avoid putting them in the fridge to prevent condensation that can ruin the candy shell.
how to serve Classic Candy Apples
Serve Classic Candy Apples on a festive platter or stick them in a jar for a fun display. They make great snacks for parties or Halloween events. For extra flair, drizzle some melted chocolate on top or sprinkle with crushed nuts before the candy hardens.
how to store Classic Candy Apples
Store candy apples at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep them in a single layer to avoid sticking. Do not refrigerate them, as this can cause the candy coating to become wet and lose its shine.
tips to make Classic Candy Apples
- Use fresh, firm apples for the best results.
- Make sure your apples are completely dry before dipping; moisture can ruin the candy coating.
- Work quickly when dipping the apples, as the syrup hardens fast.
- Experiment with different food colorings and toppings for fun variations.
variation (if any)
You can create spiced candy apples by adding a pinch of cinnamon or ground cloves to the syrup. For a colorful twist, use different food colorings or even drizzle with chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts.
FAQs
1. Can I use sugar substitutes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use erythritol or a keto-friendly sweetener. Adjust the cooking times as needed.
2. How do I prevent the candy coating from becoming sticky?
Store the apples in a cool, dry place and avoid refrigeration. Make sure the syrup reaches the correct temperature when cooking.
3. What types of apples are best for candy apples?
Firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith or Fuji work best because they hold up well to the candy coating.
Classic Candy Apples
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fun and tasty treat, Classic Candy Apples bring back childhood memories and are perfect for parties, Halloween, or just a fun day at home.
Ingredients
- 6 firm, crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- Red food coloring (optional, about 10-15 drops)
- 6 wooden sticks
- Pinch of cinnamon or ground cloves (for spiced candy apples)
- Dark or white chocolate for drizzling (once candy is set)
- Crushed nuts (peanuts, almonds, pistachios) for coating
- Alternative food coloring (green, blue, rainbow)
- Erythritol or keto-friendly sweetener (for sugar-free option; adjust cooking times)
Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly dry each apple to remove any wax. Insert wooden sticks securely into the stem end of each apple.
- In a medium saucepan, mix sugar, corn syrup, water, and vinegar. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil without stirring.
- Cook until it reaches 300°F (the hard-crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove the syrup from heat and quickly stir in your choice of food coloring and, if desired, a few drops of vanilla or almond extract.
- Holding the wooden stick, dip each apple into the hot candy syrup, swirling to coat evenly. Let the excess drip back into the pan.
- Place the dipped apples onto a greased or parchment-lined surface to cool and harden for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
Notes
Use fresh, firm apples for the best results. Work quickly when dipping the apples as the syrup hardens fast. Store candy apples in a cool, dry place and avoid refrigeration.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Candying
- Cuisine: American