Add color and crunch to your holidays with this simple candy apple recipe.
Nothing is sweeter or more tart and crunchy and, oh, so shiny for Christmas. I am not a candy maker, however, this recipe is easy peasy. I remember making these with my mother once or twice when I was growing up and I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into the hard, crunchy outer layer to get to that juicy apple. Sometimes, though, that was easier said than done with its slippery surface. I wonder if the old saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” refers to these candy-coated apples as well?
It takes just a few ingredients and a little patience and these red beauties can complement any table.
INGREDIENTS
6 apples
6 popsicle or lollypop sticks
2 cups sugar
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (I used gel coloring)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Start by washing and drying apples completely. Insert your popsicle or lollypop sticks into the stem of the apple to use as a handle. Cut wax paper to fit on a baking sheet and spray with cooking spray.
- Combine all ingredients into a heavy saucepan and whisk until sugar is dissolved.
- Allow to boil over medium-high heat for approximately 10-15 minutes or until mixture reads the “hard crack” stage you will see labeled on your candy thermometer. No stirring is necessary while you’re waiting for it to come to temperature.
- Remove from heat and quickly dredge your apples in the candy mixture, set on a wax-paper-covered baking sheet and allow to set. Be very careful during this process as the mixture is extremely hot.
- Your apples can be enjoyed the same day you make them. If you’re not going to eat them right away, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or in individual cellophane bags.
Display your candy apples on a decorative tray for a festive centerpiece.
You can even wrap them up individually or find a cute plaid tin like this one I found at Urban Farmhouse Designs and give them away for gifts. I like giving Christmas goodies to my friends and neighbors and these are so fun and a great alternative to regular Christmas cookies.
A tip I will give you for eating your candy apple, use a knife to cut it first. The candy coating really is hard to bite into and I have found cutting them is a great way around that. AND…I really don’t want to get any of your dental bills for broken teeth. LOL.
I would LOVE for you to give these a try. It really took me back to my childhood during the process and I figured even if I don’t ever personally eat them, boy they sure are pretty and my friends will love them. If you enjoyed this recipe, another fun baking DIY for Christmas are my gingerbread ornaments. They aren’t edible, but will fill your house with the ALL things Christmas as they’re baking. You can find that tutorial right here.
Happy baking, Friends.
XO
