Creating Candy Apples is a delightful culinary adventure that combines the crispness of fresh apples with a sweet, glossy candy coating, perfect for any occasion from Halloween treats to festive gatherings. This recipe promises a quick and easy preparation, ideal for those seeking a vibrant, kid-friendly snack that’s both vegan and low in cholesterol, making it a guilt-free indulgence for all.
Ingredients:
- 6 Red Delicious apples
- 6 cups sugar
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup
- 2/3 cup water
- 2/3 cup vinegar
Instructions:
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Prepare the Apples:
- Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the apples to ensure they are free from any wax or residue. Remove the stems and insert wooden sticks into the stem end of each apple, setting them aside on a prepared surface.
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Prepare the Candy Coating:
- In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, light corn syrup, water, and vinegar. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are integrated evenly.
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Cook the Candy Mixture:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture until it reaches 295 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent the sugar from burning and to achieve a smooth consistency.
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Add Food Coloring:
- Once the candy mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from heat promptly. Stir in your preferred food coloring to achieve the vibrant hue desired for your candy apples. This step adds a festive touch and makes the apples visually appealing.
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Coat the Apples:
- Working quickly yet carefully, dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, rotating it to ensure an even coating. Allow any excess candy coating to drip off back into the saucepan before placing the coated apples onto a buttered baking sheet. The buttered surface prevents sticking and helps the apples cool evenly.
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Cool and Serve:
- Allow the candy apples to cool completely at room temperature. Once set, they are ready to be enjoyed as a crunchy, sweet treat. Optionally, you can wrap them in cellophane or place them in decorative cupcake liners for a festive presentation.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 589.5
- Fat Content: 0.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 27.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 154.3g
- Fiber Content: 4.4g
- Sugar Content: 128.9g
- Protein Content: 0.5g
Recipe Notes:
- Apples: Red Delicious apples are recommended for their crisp texture and sweet flavor, but you can experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith for a tart contrast.
- Candy Coating: The candy coating should be monitored closely with a candy thermometer to achieve the correct temperature (295°F) for optimal texture and glossiness.
- Food Coloring: Choose food coloring that complements the occasion, such as orange for Halloween or red for a traditional look.
- Storage: Store candy apples in a cool, dry place or refrigerate them if the weather is warm to preserve their texture and taste.
This recipe not only satisfies the craving for a classic treat but also allows for creativity with different colors and decorations, making it a versatile addition to any festive spread or a simple, fun snack for kids and adults alike.
