Classic Red Candy Apples
Indulge in the timeless delight of Classic Red Candy Apples, a favorite treat for fairs, festivals, and special occasions. This simple yet delicious recipe combines the sweetness of crunchy Red Delicious apples encased in a glossy, vibrant candy coating. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these candy apples are not only fun to make but also make a festive addition to any dessert platter. Share them at gatherings or enjoy them as a playful snack—either way, their irresistible sweetness will surely bring smiles!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Red Delicious apples
6 medium (Wash and dry thoroughly, removing stems.)
Wooden popsicle sticks
6 (Insert into the stem end of each apple.)
Sugar
3 cups (No preparation needed.)
Light corn syrup
2/3 cup (No preparation needed.)
Water
2/3 cup (No preparation needed.)
Vinegar
1 teaspoon (No preparation needed.)
Red food coloring
6-8 drops (No preparation needed.)
Instructions
1
Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the Red Delicious apples, making sure to remove any stems.
2
Carefully insert a wooden popsicle stick into the stem end of each apple, ensuring it is secure.
3
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, light corn syrup, water, and vinegar. Stir well to mix the ingredients.
4
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a temperature of 295 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. This temperature indicates that the candy will harden properly.
5
Once it reaches the desired temperature, promptly remove the saucepan from heat and add the red food coloring. Stir quickly and gently to incorporate the color evenly.
6
Quickly dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, allowing any excess candy to drip back into the pan.
7
Transfer the dipped candy apples onto a buttered baking sheet and let them cool completely before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Classic Red Candy Apples?
Classic Red Candy Apples are a traditional treat consisting of fresh apples, specifically Red Delicious in this recipe, covered in a hard, glossy, red candy coating.
What type of apples should I use for this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for 6 medium Red Delicious apples for the best results.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 6 individual candy apples.
Why do I need to wash and dry the apples thoroughly?
Washing removes wax and dirt, while thorough drying ensures that the candy coating adheres properly to the apple skin without slipping.
What kind of sticks are used for the apples?
The recipe uses 6 wooden popsicle sticks, inserted into the stem end of each apple.
What ingredients are needed for the candy coating?
The coating is made from 3 cups of sugar, 2/3 cup light corn syrup, 2/3 cup water, 1 teaspoon of vinegar, and 6-8 drops of red food coloring.
What temperature must the candy mixture reach?
The mixture must reach 295 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer to ensure the candy hardens properly.
Why is vinegar added to the sugar mixture?
Vinegar helps to stabilize the sugar mixture and prevent crystallization, resulting in a smoother coating.
How much food coloring should I add?
You should add 6 to 8 drops of red food coloring to achieve a vibrant, festive red color.
When do I add the red food coloring?
The food coloring should be added promptly after removing the saucepan from the heat, once the mixture has reached 295 degrees Fahrenheit.
How do I prevent the apples from sticking to the tray after dipping?
Place the dipped apples onto a buttered baking sheet to cool, which prevents the candy from sticking to the surface.
What is the best way to dip the apples?
Quickly dip each apple into the hot candy mixture and allow any excess to drip back into the pan before placing it on the baking sheet.
Can kids help make these candy apples?
While these are a favorite for kids, adult supervision is required because the candy mixture becomes extremely hot and can cause burns.
Are these apples suitable for parties?
Yes, they make a festive addition to any dessert platter and are perfect for fairs, festivals, and special holiday occasions.
What is the role of light corn syrup in this recipe?
The light corn syrup prevents the sugar from crystallizing, which keeps the candy coating clear and glossy.
How long do the apples need to cool?
The apples should be left to cool completely until the candy shell is hard and set before serving.
What type of saucepan should I use?
A heavy-bottomed saucepan is recommended to ensure even heating and to prevent the sugar from burning.
What should I do with the excess candy in the pan?
Allow excess candy to drip off the apple back into the pan during the dipping process to ensure a clean finish.
Is a candy thermometer necessary?
Yes, a candy thermometer is essential to ensure the mixture hits the precise 295 degree mark required for the coating to harden.
Can I use different colors of food coloring?
While this recipe is for classic red apples, you could technically use other food colors following the same process.
How much water is used in the candy base?
The recipe requires 2/3 cup of water.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 total ingredients: apples, sticks, sugar, corn syrup, water, vinegar, and food coloring.
Where do I find wooden popsicle sticks?
Popsicle sticks can usually be found in the craft section or the baking aisle of most grocery and department stores.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made a few hours in advance, but they are best enjoyed shortly after the candy has fully set.
Should I stir the mixture while it cooks?
You should stir occasionally while it heats until it reaches the desired temperature.
What is the texture of the candy coating?
The coating is hard, sweet, and crunchy once it has cooled and set properly.
How do I clean the candy from the pot?
Soaking the saucepan in very hot water will help dissolve the hardened sugar for easier cleaning.
Is there any nutritional information available?
Nutritional data such as calories, fat, and protein are not specified for this specific recipe.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
This recipe is tagged as a snack, dessert, holiday treat, fair food, kids recipe, and homemade candy.
What is the final step before serving?
The final step is to let the apples cool completely on the buttered baking sheet.