Vibrant Red Candy Apples

Introduction

Candied apples are a timeless treat that brings together the crunch of fresh, juicy apples with the sweet, hard candy coating. This vibrant red delight is often associated with fairs and celebrations, but it’s also perfect for a fun day at home, making it a versatile dessert for all ages. In this recipe, we explore not only how to make the perfect candied apple but also how to create a visually stunning and delectable masterpiece that can be enjoyed any time of the year.

Whether you’re planning a party, craving a nostalgic snack, or wanting to try something fun with your kids, candied apples are the perfect go-to treat. Plus, with our easy microwave option, you can have these ready in a snap. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore each step of creating these vibrant red candied apples, from preparing the ingredients to adding finishing touches.

Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Needed Equipment

Candy thermometer or microwave-safe candy thermometer
Wooden skewers or lollipop sticks
Large heavy-bottom saucepan (2-quart)
Buttered cookie sheet
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon for stirring
Microwave-safe 1.5-quart casserole dish (for the microwave option)

Serving Size

Servings: 8-10 apples
Calories per Serving: 348.4 kcal

Difficulty Level

Easy

Allergen Information

Allergens: None directly, but cross-contamination with nuts or other allergens is possible depending on your kitchen. Ensure your workspace and tools are free from allergens if necessary.

Dietary Preference

Vegetarian

Course

Dessert

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Crisp red apples	8-10
Sugar	2 cups
Water	3/4 cup
Light corn syrup	1/2 cup
Red food color	1/2 teaspoon
Clove oil (optional)	1-2 drops
Butter (for greasing)	2 tablespoons

Instructions

Prepare Your Workspace:
Butter a large cookie sheet generously to create a non-stick surface for your apples. Set it aside to cool.
Clean and Skewer the Apples:
Wash and dry your apples thoroughly. Insert a wooden skewer or lollipop stick into the stem end of each apple, ensuring the apples are firmly attached.
Create the Candy Syrup:
In a large, heavy-bottom saucepan, combine sugar, water, light corn syrup, and red food color. Stir the mixture over high heat and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly to maintain a steady simmer.
Reach Candy Consistency:
Using a candy thermometer, continue heating the mixture until it reaches 290°F (hard crack stage). For an alternative method, drop a small amount of syrup into cold water – it should form hard but pliable threads. Once ready, you may stir in 1-2 drops of clove oil for an extra flavor boost (optional).
Dip the Apples:
Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully dip each apple into the hot syrup. Twirl the apples around to ensure even coating. Allow excess syrup to drip off, and then place the apples on the buttered cookie sheet to cool.
Microwave Option:
If you’re short on time, you can make the candy syrup in the microwave. Combine sugar, water, light corn syrup, and red food color in a 1.5-quart microwave-safe dish. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, stirring once. After 5 minutes, check the temperature with a microwave candy thermometer. Once the mixture reaches 290°F, proceed with the dipping process.
Cooling Magic:
Allow the apples to cool on the cookie sheet until the candy hardens. Once cooled, they are ready to be served.

Preparation Tips

Ensure your apples are dry before dipping; moisture can prevent the candy from adhering properly.
If you find the candy is hardening too quickly, gently reheat the syrup on low heat.
You can experiment with different food colors or add edible glitter for a festive twist.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	348.4 kcal
Carbohydrates	90g
Sugar	75g
Fat	0.1g
Protein	0.5g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	10mg

Tips and Tricks

Adding Flavors: Try adding different flavor oils like cinnamon or vanilla for a fun twist.
Color Variations: Instead of red, experiment with other food colorings to create rainbow candied apples.
Texture Control: If you prefer a softer candy shell, aim for 250°F (soft crack stage) instead of 290°F.

Add-ons

Serve the candied apples with a side of caramel or chocolate drizzle for an extra indulgence.
Create a candied apple bar where friends or family can dip their apples in various toppings like nuts, coconut flakes, or crushed cookies.

Side Dishes

Pair these candied apples with warm apple cider for a cozy autumn treat.
For a lighter option, serve them alongside a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

Improvements

If the candy coating is too thick, reduce the sugar by a quarter cup, which will create a thinner shell.
For more even coating, try tilting the saucepan while dipping the apples, ensuring all sides are covered.

Save and Store

Candied apples can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Do not refrigerate, as this can cause the candy to become sticky.
If you want to make them ahead of time, you can wrap each apple in cellophane and store it in a cool, dry place.

FAQ

Q: Can I use green apples instead of red?
A: Absolutely! Green Granny Smith apples add a tart contrast to the sweet candy coating.

Q: What can I do if the candy syrup hardens before I’m done dipping?
A: Simply reheat the syrup over low heat until it becomes liquid again.

Q: Can I make sugar-free candied apples?
A: It’s tricky to make sugar-free versions since the hard candy relies on sugar’s properties, but there are alternative recipes using sugar substitutes.

Conclusion

Red candied apples are a fun, nostalgic dessert that combines the crispness of fresh apples with a sweet, vibrant candy coating. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a party, or just a fun weekend treat, this recipe is sure to bring joy to anyone who tastes them. With both stovetop and microwave options, it’s easy to create this classic dessert in no time. Don’t forget to get creative with flavors and toppings to make it your own!