There’s something magical about candy apples in the fall—shiny red, sweet, and a little nostalgic. Whether you’re making them for a Halloween party, a school fall festival, or just as a fun weekend treat, this recipe brings back the simple joy of crisp apples coated in a glossy candy shell. The best part? These candy apples are surprisingly easy to make at home, with just a few pantry ingredients and a little patience.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dessert | 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 6–8 apples | ~250 per apple |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6–8 medium red apples (like Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup (or honey as an alternative)
- 1 cup water
- ½ teaspoon red food coloring
- Wooden sticks or skewers
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Prep the apples – Wash and dry apples thoroughly to remove any waxy coating. Insert wooden sticks firmly into the center of each apple.
- Make the candy coating – In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the color – Once the mixture reaches a boil, add red food coloring. Do not stir too much, just let it blend in.
- Heat to hard crack stage – Continue cooking until a candy thermometer reads 300°F (the hard crack stage). This ensures the coating sets perfectly.
- Dip the apples – Quickly but carefully dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, tilting to coat evenly. Let excess drip off.
- Set and cool – Place apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them cool completely before serving.
Tip: If the coating starts to thicken too quickly, return the pan to low heat for a few seconds.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Storage: Candy apples are best eaten the same day but can be stored in the fridge for 1–2 days wrapped in parchment.
- Stick options: Popsicle sticks, skewers, or even decorative lollipop sticks work great.
- Safety note: Be very careful when handling hot sugar—it can burn quickly. Keep kids involved in decorating, not dipping.
Recipe Variations
- Sprinkle-Covered Candy Apples – Roll freshly dipped apples in festive sprinkles for a fun twist.
- Caramel Apples – Swap the candy coating for melted caramel for a softer, chewy finish.
- Gourmet Candy Apples – After dipping, drizzle with white or dark chocolate for a fancy look.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these candy apples as part of a fall dessert table alongside caramel apples, pumpkin cookies, or a warm apple cider. They also make great individually wrapped party favors for autumn gatherings.
Conclusion
This easy candy apple recipe brings all the charm of fall right into your kitchen—crisp apples, glossy candy, and plenty of smiles. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, family, or little ones at a party, these sweet treats are sure to be a seasonal favorite. Enjoy every crunchy, shiny bite!