Homemade Candy Apples – Crisp, Shiny, and Perfectly Sweet

Homemade Candy Apples bring the magic of fall fairs and cozy carnivals right into your kitchen. With their glossy, jewel-toned coating and that satisfying crack when you bite in, these sweet treats are both nostalgic and irresistibly fun. Whether you’re making them for Halloween, a party, or a weekend project, they’re guaranteed to impress both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crisp and Juicy Apples – The tart crunch pairs beautifully with the sweet coating.
Shiny Candy Shell – A glossy red finish that looks straight out of a candy shop.
Simple Ingredients – Just sugar, corn syrup, water, and food coloring.
Great for Gifting or Parties – Wrap in cellophane for a festive, edible gift.

Ingredients

• 6 small tart apples (like Granny Smith), washed and dried
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ¾ cup water
• Red food coloring (about ½ tsp or to preference)
• Optional: cinnamon flavoring or extract for a spicy kick
• Wooden sticks or popsicle sticks

Instructions

1. Prep the Apples
Remove stems and insert sticks firmly into the top of each apple. Place apples on a parchment-lined tray. Make sure apples are completely dry.

2. Make the Candy Coating
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to combine. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat without stirring once it starts bubbling.

3. Monitor the Temperature
Continue boiling until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat, then stir in red food coloring and optional cinnamon flavoring.

4. Coat the Apples
Carefully tilt the saucepan and dip each apple, swirling to coat completely. Let excess drip off, then place on parchment paper to cool and harden.

5. Let Set and Enjoy
Allow apples to cool for about 15–20 minutes until the candy shell is fully set.

Nutritional Information (Per Apple)

Calories: 160
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Sugar: 38g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Use a Candy Thermometer – Accuracy is key for the perfect hard crack coating.
• Dry the Apples Well – Any moisture will cause the coating to slide off.
• Customize the Color – Use different food coloring for themed events or holidays.

Why This Recipe Works

The high-heat candy coating gives that classic glossy shell that shatters with each bite. The tart apples balance out the sweetness beautifully, and the process is surprisingly quick for how stunning the final result looks.

Candy Apples are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, nostalgic and show-stopping. They’re easy to make at home and offer a fun treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Ideal for fall festivals, parties, or just a sweet afternoon activity, these shiny red apples are a timeless classic.