Candied Apples for Halloween

why make this recipe

Candied apples are a classic treat, especially popular during Halloween. They combine the crunchiness of fresh apples with a sweet, glossy candy coating that kids and adults love. Making them at home allows you to customize the flavors and colors, making your Halloween celebrations a little sweeter. Plus, they are fun to make and can be a great activity with family or friends.

how to make Candied Apples

Ingredients:

• 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)

Directions:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. Let the candied apples sit at room temperature until the coating hardens completely, about 30 minutes.

7. For an extra Halloween touch, use a sharp paring knife to carve spooky faces into the apples before dipping them in the candy coating.

how to serve Candied Apples

Serve candied apples as a festive treat at Halloween parties or as a fun dessert after a spooky dinner. They can be placed on a decorative platter and enjoyed as is. You can also wrap them individually in cellophane to make cute party favors.

how to store Candied Apples

Store any leftover candied apples in a cool, dry place. Keep them in a single layer, so the candy coating does not stick to anything. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause the coating to become sticky.

tips to make Candied Apples

• Make sure to wash your apples well to remove any wax that can prevent the candy from sticking.
• Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature monitoring.
• Work quickly while dipping the apples; the candy will start to harden as it cools.
• You can experiment with different colors using food coloring for special events.

variation

For a twist, try adding flavored extracts like almond or mint instead of vanilla. You can also coat the apples in crushed candies, sprinkles, or drizzle melted chocolate over the hardened candy coating for different flavors and textures.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of apple for candied apples?
Yes, but firm varieties like Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work best, as they hold their shape and texture.

2. How long can I keep candied apples?
Candied apples can last for about a week when stored properly at room temperature.

3. What should I do if the candy coating becomes too hard?
If the candy coating becomes too hard, try lightly reheating it over low heat to soften it before dipping the apples again.