Description
These candied apples are a festive Halloween treat that combines the crisp tartness of fresh apples with a sweet, crunchy candy coating. Perfect for Halloween parties or as a fun treat, these apples are easy to make and customizable with color and toppings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 small apples (Granny Smith or any firm variety)
- 6 wooden sticks or skewers
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Orange food coloring (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Remove the stems and insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple, pushing it about halfway through. Place the apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Make the candy coating: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
- Heat the mixture: Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Cook until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C), the hard crack stage. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat immediately.
- Add color and flavor: Quickly stir in the vanilla extract and a few drops of orange food coloring (if using) to achieve the desired color. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble.
- Dip the apples: Working quickly, tilt the saucepan slightly and dip each apple into the candy mixture, turning to coat evenly. Allow excess to drip off, then place the apple back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. If using, immediately sprinkle chopped nuts on top before the coating hardens.
- Cool and set: Let the candied apples sit at room temperature until the coating hardens completely, about 30 minutes.
- Decorate (optional): For an extra Halloween touch, use a sharp paring knife to carve spooky faces into the apples before dipping them in the candy coating.
Notes
- Choose Firm Apples: Granny Smith apples are recommended for their firmness and tart flavor, which pairs well with the sweet candy coating.
- Candy Thermometer: Ensure you use a reliable candy thermometer to reach the hard crack stage for the best results.
- Optional Toppings: Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or edible glitter can be added before the coating hardens for extra flair.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Boiling, Dipping
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 candied apple
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 78 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 80 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg