There is something magical about the smell of crisp fall air. It always makes me crave Classic Red Candy Apples from the fair.
You can bring that carnival fun right into your own kitchen today. This recipe is simple, sweet, and perfect for your next family movie night.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
These apples are a total showstopper for any fall gathering. They look professional but use simple ingredients you likely already have.
You will love the satisfying crunch of the hard sugar shell. It is the ultimate budget-friendly treat for a large group of kids.
Best of all, these Classic Red Candy Apples are naturally gluten-free. Everyone at your party can enjoy a sweet, shiny treat.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making the candy coating is much easier than you might think. We use a candy thermometer to ensure perfect results every single time.
You just boil the sugar mixture and dip your fresh fruit. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this method.
The process is quick and brings so much joy to the kitchen. Your family will love watching the apples turn bright and glossy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
I recommend using Granny Smith apples for the best flavor balance. Their tartness pairs perfectly with the sweet candy coating.
- 8 medium Granny Smith apples
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
- 8 wooden skewers
Step-by-Step Directions
- Wash and thoroughly dry apples, ensuring all wax is removed.
- Remove stems and insert wooden skewers into the core.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup.
- Stir until sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil without stirring.
- Cook until the syrup reaches 300-310 degrees Fahrenheit on a thermometer.
- Remove from heat and immediately stir in the red food coloring.
- Carefully tilt the pan and dip each apple into the syrup.
- Swirl to coat evenly and let excess syrup drip back into the pan.
- Place on parchment and let cool completely for 20 minutes.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these apples on a rustic wooden board for a beautiful fall display. They are a huge hit at Halloween parties and school events.
Pair them with a mug of warm apple cider. You can even serve them alongside salty popcorn for a carnival-themed snack.
Set them out as a centerpiece and watch them disappear. Your guests will be so impressed that you made them yourself!
Keep It Fresh
Store your Classic Red Candy Apples in a cool, dry place. They are best enjoyed within one or two days of making.
Avoid putting them in the fridge if possible. The moisture in the refrigerator can make the candy shell sticky.
If you must store them longer, wrap them individually in cellophane. This keeps the sugar coating crisp and prevents sticking.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the wax removal step or the candy won’t stick.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the sugar from burning.
- Avoid stirring the syrup once it starts boiling to prevent crystals.
- Work quickly once the syrup reaches the hard-crack stage.
- Keep a bowl of ice water nearby for safety when working with hot sugar.
- For a fun twist, add a tiny drop of cinnamon extract to the syrup.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Try using black food coloring for a spooky Halloween look.
- Swap Granny Smith for Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter bite.
- Roll the bottom of the wet apple in crushed nuts or sprinkles.
- Use decorative twigs instead of skewers for a rustic woodland feel.
Common Questions
Why is the candy coating soft or sticky?
This usually happens if the syrup did not reach the full 300 degrees. Always use a reliable candy thermometer for the best results.
How do I remove the wax from store-bought apples?
Dip the apples in boiling water for a few seconds. Wipe them firmly with a rough towel to scrub the wax away.
Can I make these a day ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them 24 hours before your event. Just keep them in a cool area away from high humidity.
I hope these bright, crunchy treats bring a little extra joy to your home this season. They are so much fun to make and even better to share with the people you love.
— Lidia
Classic Red Candy Apples
Ingredients
- 8 medium Granny Smith apples
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup wate r
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
- 8 wooden skewer s
Instructions
- Wash and thoroughly dry apples, ensuring all wax is removed. Remove stems and insert wooden skewers into the core.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with non-stick spray or butter.
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and light corn syrup over medium-high heat.
- Stir until sugar dissolves, then bring the mixture to a boil without further stirring.
- Insert a candy thermometer and cook until the syrup reaches 300-310 degrees Fahrenheit (hard-crack stage).
- Remove saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the red food coloring.
- Carefully tilt the pan and dip each apple into the syrup, swirling to coat the surface evenly.
- Allow excess syrup to drip back into the pan before placing the apple on the prepared parchment paper.
- Let the apples cool completely at room temperature for at least 20 minutes until the coating is hard.
