Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cinnamon Sugar Delight Apples?
They are a stunning dessert made by baking whole apples in a vibrant red cinnamon syrup created from melted cinnamon candies.
What kind of apples work best for this recipe?
Firm baking apples that hold their shape, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn, are ideal for this recipe.
How many apples does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed for 6 apples.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How should I prepare the apples?
Core each apple while leaving the bottom intact and peel the top half of the apple to allow the sauce to soak in.
Why is the bottom of the apple left intact?
Leaving the bottom intact helps the apple hold its shape and keeps any syrup pooled inside.
Why are the apples only peeled halfway down?
Peeling them halfway allows the cinnamon sauce to penetrate the flesh while the remaining skin helps maintain structural integrity.
What kind of candies are used in the sauce?
The recipe calls for 10 ounces of Cinnamon Imperials or Brach's cinnamon candies.
How much sugar is needed for the syrup?
The recipe requires 1 cup of granulated sugar.
What type of water should be used for the mixture?
Use 1 cup of boiling hot water to help dissolve the candies and sugar quickly.
How do I make the red cinnamon sauce?
Combine sugar, cinnamon candies, red food coloring, and hot water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until dissolved.
How many drops of food coloring are suggested?
The recipe suggests 5 drops of liquid red food coloring for a vibrant look.
What type of baking dish is best?
A Pyrex baking dish or any oven-safe casserole dish is suitable.
How long do the apples need to bake?
The apples should bake for approximately 1 hour.
Do I need to do anything while the apples are baking?
Yes, you should baste the apples with the syrup every 10 to 15 minutes.
Why is basting important?
Basting keeps the apples moist and ensures they are thoroughly coated in flavor and color.
What should I serve these apples with?
They are delicious on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Should these be served warm or cold?
They are best enjoyed warm, though they can also be eaten at room temperature.
Where does this recipe come from?
This is a cherished family recipe passed down from the creator's aunt.
What makes this recipe unique?
The use of Cinnamon Imperial candies creates a specific spicy-sweet flavor and vibrant red color that is traditional yet distinct.
Can I skip the red food coloring?
Yes, the cinnamon candies will provide some color, but the extra drops ensure a truly vibrant red finish.
Are these apples gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are gluten-free, but you should always check the label on the cinnamon candies to be certain.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: apples, sugar, water, cinnamon candies, and food coloring.
Can I make this for a holiday?
Yes, their festive red color makes them perfect for holidays like Christmas or Valentine's Day.
How do I know when the apples are done?
The apples should be tender when pierced with a fork but not falling apart.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I reheat the leftovers?
Yes, you can reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Is the sauce very spicy?
It has a mild cinnamon heat similar to red hot candies, balanced by the sugar and the apple's sweetness.
What is the prep time?
Prepping the apples and making the sauce takes about 15 minutes before the hour-long bake.
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
White granulated sugar is recommended to maintain the bright red color of the syrup, as brown sugar will darken it.