These easy homemade candy apples are a fun, nostalgic treat that’s perfect for fall or any special occasion. Crisp apples are dipped in a simple homemade candy coating that sets into a glossy, crunchy shell. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can make these festive treats right in your own kitchen.
Recipe adapted from Just a Taste by Kelly Senyei
Ingredients:
12 small red or green apples (any variety)
12 lollipop or popsicle sticks
3 cups sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
Equipment: candy thermometer
Instructions:
- Wash the apples and make sure they are completely dry. Push a lollipop or popsicle stick securely into the top of each apple. Place the apples on a wax-paper-lined baking sheet lightly coated with cooking spray.
- Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a heavy saucepan. Cook over medium heat, bringing the mixture to a boil. Continue cooking until a candy thermometer reaches 300°F, the hard-crack stage.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully stir in the red food coloring. Be cautious, as the hot candy may splatter. Depending on the type and strength of your food coloring, you may need a little more than ½ teaspoon to achieve the desired color.
- Dip each apple into the hot candy coating, gently rotating it until completely covered. Allow excess coating to drip back into the pan, then place the coated apple on the prepared baking sheet. Let the apples cool completely until the candy coating has hardened.
Helpful Tips:
Store-bought apples may have a wax coating that prevents the candy from sticking. To remove it, bring 6 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to a boil. Dip each apple into the boiling water for about 5 seconds, then dry it thoroughly before coating.
If the candy becomes too thick while dipping, warm it over medium heat until it loosens enough to continue coating the apples.
For a festive presentation, place the finished candy apples in colorful cupcake liners.