Description

These festive Candied Apples are a classic Halloween treat featuring crisp apples coated in a glossy, hard candy shell with a vibrant red color. Perfect for fall celebrations, they combine the tartness of firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji with a sweet, crunchy candy coating made from sugar, corn syrup, and water. Easy to make on the stovetop, these delicious treats are sure to impress kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples and Sticks

6 small apples (preferably firm varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji), stems removed
6 wooden sticks or lollipop sticks

Candy Coating

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
3/4 cup water
1/2 tsp red food coloring

Other

Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper

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Instructions

Prepare Apples: Wash and thoroughly dry the apples to ensure the candy coating adheres properly. Remove stems and insert a wooden stick into the center of each apple, pushing firmly but carefully to avoid piercing through to the other side.
Prep Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking once apples are dipped.
Make Candy Syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently just until the sugar dissolves. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring further. Let it cook until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), which should take about 20 minutes.
Add Coloring: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the red food coloring to achieve a vibrant candy coating.
Coat Apples: Working quickly, tilt the pan slightly and dip each apple into the hot candy syrup, turning to coat all around evenly. Allow any excess syrup to drip back into the pan.
Cool and Harden: Place the coated apples on the prepared baking sheet. Let them cool and harden at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving, ensuring a crisp shell.

Notes

Make sure the apples are completely dry before dipping to prevent the candy from seizing or sliding off.
For a spooky Halloween twist, try using black or deep purple food coloring and sprinkle with edible glitter.
Candied apples are best eaten the same day but can be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours.