Classic Red Candy Apples (Print View)

Crisp apples enveloped in a sweet, shiny red candy coating for festive enjoyment.

# Components:

→ Apples

01 - 8 medium Granny Smith or Gala apples, washed and thoroughly dried

→ Candy Coating

02 - 2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 1 cup light corn syrup
04 - 1/2 cup water
05 - 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring, liquid or gel

→ Extras

06 - 8 wooden sticks, popsicle or craft sticks
07 - Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper

# Directions:

01 - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
02 - Push a wooden stick firmly into the stem end of each apple and set aside on a clean surface.
03 - In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir to blend evenly.
04 - Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan.
05 - Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring further. Continue boiling until the mixture reaches 300°F, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
06 - Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately stir in the red food coloring until evenly distributed throughout the syrup.
07 - Working quickly and carefully as the syrup is extremely hot, tilt the pan and dip each apple, turning to coat completely. Allow excess syrup to drip off before placing on the prepared baking sheet.
08 - Allow the apples to cool completely at room temperature until the candy shell hardens, approximately 15 minutes.
09 - Serve within a few hours for optimal texture and appearance.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Creates a stunning, glossy red candy shell that cracks satisfyingly with every bite
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
  • Perfect for parties, holidays, and festive occasions
  • Granny Smith apples provide a tart contrast to the sweet coating
  • Fun to make and even more fun to eat
02 -
  • Always use a candy thermometer—precision is key to achieving the hard crack stage
  • Work quickly once the syrup is ready, as it begins to harden almost immediately
  • Tilt the pan rather than dipping straight down for more even coverage
  • If air bubbles form in the coating, gently tap the apple on the side of the pan to release them
  • Keep children and pets away from the workspace when handling hot syrup
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