How to Make Delicious Candy Apples in Just a Few Simple Steps

Candy apples are a classic treat that are loved by people of all ages. They are typically sold at fall festivals and carnivals, but can be made easily at home. Making candy apples is a fun and simple activity to do with friends and family, and it is perfect for a tasty snack or dessert.

To make candy apples, you will need apples, sugar, corn syrup, water, food coloring, and any additional toppings or flavors you may want to add. The process involves cooking the sugar mixture on the stove, dipping the apples in the candy coating, and letting them cool. With a few key tips and tricks, making candy apples at home is a fun and rewarding activity that can lead to delicious results.

What You Will Need

Before starting the candy apple-making process, it’s important to gather all your ingredients and utensils.

For the candy coating, you will need:

• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup of corn syrup
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1/4 teaspoon of red food coloring (optional)

For the apple:

• Six medium-sized apples
• Six wooden skewers
• Parchment paper

For the equipment, you will need:

• A heavy-duty saucepan
• A candy thermometer
• A wooden spoon
• A baking sheet

Preparing the Apples

The first step in making candy apples is to ensure your apples are clean and dry.

To make sure they’re clean, wash them in hot water and dry them thoroughly with a clean towel. If there’s any wax or dirt residue on them, use a scrub brush to get rid of it.

Once your apples are dry, insert a wooden stick into the top of each one. You can use Popsicle sticks, skewers, or wooden chopsticks. Make sure the stick is firmly in place, but not poking through the other side of the apple. Set aside on a piece of parchment paper.

Making the Candy Coating

To make the candy coating, combine the granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup in a heavy-duty saucepan. Place the pan over medium heat and stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved fully.

Once the mixture begins to boil, insert a candy thermometer into the pan and keep stirring. The mixture will bubble up, so make sure you are using a pan large enough to prevent boiling over.

Continue cooking the mixture over medium heat, without stirring, until it reaches a temperature of 300°F. This process could take between 15-20 minutes. At this point, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit for a minute.

Adding Color and Flavor

At this stage, you can add some flavor and color to your candy coating. If you want plain red candy apples, then skip this step.

To add flavor and color, stir in ¼ teaspoon of red food coloring or any other color of your choice. You can also add candy flavorings at this point, such as cinnamon, vanilla, or peppermint extract for an additional punch of flavor.

Stir well to ensure the color and flavor are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Dipping the Apples

With your candy coating ready, dip each apple in the mixture, using the wooden stick as a handle.

Make sure the entire apple is coated in the candy mixture and use a spoon to drip off any excess coating. Be cautious when dipping the apples as the candy coating temperature may be hot.

Set each coated apple on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool.

You can decorate the candy apples with sprinkles or nuts at this point if you want something extra.

Cooling and Storing

Let the candy apples cool and harden for at least 30 minutes before serving and enjoying.

If you’re looking to store them for later, do so in an airtight container, preferably in the refridgerator to prevent the candy coating from melting.

Clean Up

Cleaning the equipment and utensils is a crucial step in the candy apple-making process.

Remove any remaining candy coating from the saucepan and thermometer by soaking them in warm water. Don’t use hot water as the extreme difference in temperature can cause damage to both the pan and thermometer.

When the candy coating has softened, use a sponge or soft-bristle brush to rinse off any candy residue. Avoid using anything abrasive that can scratch or damage the materials. Once everything is thoroughly cleaned and dried, store them away for your next candy treat.

Conclusion

Making candy apples is one of those sweet treats that’s a fun activity to cook with your friends or family. Following these steps will ensure your candy apples come out perfectly every time. All that’s left is to enjoy snacking on your delicious creations!

Choosing the Right Apples

When making candy apples, it is important to choose the right type of apples. Not all apples are suitable for making candy apples. You want to use a firm, crisp apple that will hold up to the heat of the candy coating. Here are some of the best apple varieties to use:

1. Granny Smith: These tart apples are great for candy apples because they are firm and hold their shape well.

2. Honeycrisp: This type of apple is juicy and sweet, but also firm enough to hold up to the candy coating.

3. Gala: Gala apples are an excellent choice because they are sweet and have a thinner skin, making them ideal for candy apples.

4. Fuji: These apples are sweet and crunchy, making them perfect for candy apples.

5. Braeburn: These apples are tart and firm, making them an excellent choice for candy apples.

When selecting your apples, make sure to choose ones that are free of bruises, and have a uniform shape for easier dipping. You can also use a skewer or popsicle stick to make it easier to hold the apple while dipping it into the candy coating.

Steps to Make Candy Apples

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready, it’s time to make your own candy apples. Follow the steps below to get started:

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Wash and dry the apples thoroughly before you begin. Once dried, insert the wooden skewers into the top of the apples and stick them all the way through the core. This will make it easier to coat the apples in caramel and sprinkle with toppings later.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

In a saucepan, melt your desired amount of sugar and corn syrup with some water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let the mixture boil until it reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer. Quickly remove the pan from heat and add in your desired food coloring and flavoring while stirring constantly.

Step 3: Dip the Apples

Once the caramel mixture is ready, dip each apple into the mixture, making sure that it’s completely coated. You can also swirl the apple around to ensure that it’s evenly coated. Remove the apple from the pan and hold it upside down for a few seconds to let excess caramel drip off.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

While the caramel is still wet, sprinkle your desired toppings onto the apple. This can include crushed candy, chopped nuts, or even sprinkles. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or butterscotch over the top for added flavor and texture.

Step 5: Allow the Apples to Set

Place the candy apples onto a lined baking sheet and allow them to cool for at least 30 minutes. Once the caramel has hardened, you can wrap them in cellophane and tie with ribbon or serve them immediately.

Making candy apples is a fun activity that you can do with your family or friends. With these simple steps, you can create a delicious and visually appealing treat that is perfect for Halloween, fall festivals, or just as a sweet snack. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and flavorings to make your candy apples uniquely your own. Enjoy!

Enjoy Your Tasty Treat!

Now that you know how to make delicious candy apples, it’s time to put your skills to the test and make some for yourself and your loved ones. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to add your own personal touch. Thank you for reading and I hope you come back soon for more fun and tasty recipes!