Description

Classic Candy Apples feature crisp, juicy apples coated in a hard, shiny candy shell made from sugar, corn syrup, and vinegar. This nostalgic treat is perfect for fall gatherings and holidays, with options to add colorful food coloring, spices, chocolate drizzles, and nut coatings for extra flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Apples

6 firm, crisp apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
6 wooden sticks

Candy Coating

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)
Pinch of cinnamon or ground cloves (for spiced candy apples)

Optional Toppings

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

Prepare Your Apples: Wash and thoroughly dry each apple to remove any wax coating that could prevent the candy from sticking. Insert wooden sticks securely into the stem end of each apple. Ensuring apples are completely dry is crucial before proceeding to coating.
Make the Candy Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and vinegar. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring, and cook until the candy thermometer reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage) for a crisp and shiny candy coating.
Add Color and Flavor: Remove the syrup from heat and quickly stir in your chosen food coloring and, if preferred, a few drops of vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor. Work swiftly as the syrup hardens rapidly once removed from the heat.
Dip the Apples: Holding the wooden stick, dip each apple into the hot candy syrup. Swirl the apple to coat it evenly, letting any excess syrup drip back into the pan. After dipping, place the apples onto a greased or parchment-lined surface to cool and harden.
Let Them Set: Allow the candy apples to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until the candy shell is fully hardened and glossy. Avoid refrigerating the apples to prevent condensation, which can ruin the candy coating.

Notes

Ensure apples are completely dry before dipping to help the candy adhere properly.
Use a candy thermometer to reach the hard-crack stage precisely for the best texture.
You can add spices like cinnamon or cloves to the syrup for a warm, spiced flavor.
For a sugar-free option, substitute sugar with erythritol or a keto-friendly sweetener, but remember to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
Drizzle melted chocolate or coat with crushed nuts after dipping for extra indulgence.
Allow the candy coating to harden at room temperature; refrigeration is not recommended to avoid moisture buildup.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: candy apples, classic candy apples, hard candy coating, fall treats, Halloween snacks, homemade candy apples