Deliciously Spiced Cinnamon Candied Apples
Indulge in the sweet, festive delight of Deliciously Spiced Cinnamon Candied Apples! Perfect for fall gatherings, family reunions, or seasonal celebrations, this treat combines the crispness of fresh apples with a vibrant candy coating infused with warm spices and a hint of cinnamon. This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it a great activity for kids and adults alike to enjoy making—just remember to share! Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, followed by a luscious candy shell that will have everyone reaching for more.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
granulated sugar
2 cups (none)
corn syrup
2 cups (none)
red cinnamon candies
1/3 cup (none)
water
1 cup (none)
ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon (none)
vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (none)
ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon (none)
red food coloring
3/4 teaspoon (none)
medium apples
6 (remove stems, wash, and dry)
Instructions
1
Begin by removing the stems from the apples, washing them thoroughly under running water, and patting them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
2
Insert a wooden skewer into each apple, pushing it through the apple from the stem end to the base without allowing it to poke through the bottom.
3
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, red cinnamon candies, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly until the candies have completely dissolved.
4
Be cautious not to let the mixture reach a boil at this stage.
5
Once the candies have dissolved, add in the ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, ground cloves, and red food coloring, stirring well to ensure everything is thoroughly mixed.
6
Increase the heat and allow the mixture to come to a boil. Using a candy thermometer, monitor the temperature until it reaches exactly 300°F (hard crack stage). Avoid stirring once the mixture begins to boil.
7
While the candy mixture is boiling, prepare a baking sheet by applying a generous coating of cooking spray to prevent the apples from sticking.
8
As soon as the candy mixture reaches 300°F, remove it from the heat promptly. Take each skewer-mounted apple and carefully dip it into the hot candy coating, ensuring the apple is fully covered. Allow any excess candy to drip off before placing the apple upright on the prepared baking sheet.
9
Repeat the dipping process for all apples, positioning them with the skewers pointing upwards on the baking sheet.
10
Allow the candied apples to cool and harden completely at room temperature. This usually takes about 30 minutes. Once set, they are ready to be enjoyed!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of these candied apples?
The apples feature a sweet candy coating infused with warm spices, red cinnamon candies, and a hint of vanilla.
How many apples does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to make 6 Deliciously Spiced Cinnamon Candied Apples.
What is the target temperature for the candy coating?
The candy mixture must reach the hard crack stage, which is exactly 300°F on a candy thermometer.
How do I prepare the apples before dipping?
You should remove the stems, wash the apples thoroughly under running water, pat them completely dry, and insert a wooden skewer into the stem end.
Which spices are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for ground cinnamon and ground cloves to provide a warm, spiced flavor.
Why is it important to dry the apples thoroughly?
Drying the apples ensures that the candy coating adheres properly to the skin without slipping off.
What type of syrup is used in the candy mixture?
The recipe uses 2 cups of corn syrup combined with granulated sugar.
Can I stir the mixture while it is boiling?
No, you should avoid stirring the mixture once it begins to boil and reaches the hard crack stage.
How long do the apples need to cool before serving?
The candied apples should cool and harden at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.
What should I use to prevent the apples from sticking to the tray?
Apply a generous coating of cooking spray to a baking sheet before placing the dipped apples on it.
What are the red cinnamon candies used for?
The red cinnamon candies are dissolved into the syrup to provide both a vibrant red color and a concentrated cinnamon flavor.
How deep should I insert the wooden skewers?
Push the skewer through the stem end into the base of the apple without allowing it to poke through the bottom.
Is red food coloring required?
Yes, 3/4 teaspoon of red food coloring is used to enhance the vibrant festive appearance of the apples.
What is the first step in making the candy coating?
Combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, red cinnamon candies, and water in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat.
When should I add the ground cinnamon and vanilla?
Add the ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, ground cloves, and food coloring after the cinnamon candies have completely dissolved but before the mixture boils.
What happens if the candy doesn't reach 300°F?
If the mixture doesn't reach 300°F, the coating may be sticky or soft rather than a hard, crunchy shell.
Are these apples suitable for holiday gatherings?
Yes, they are perfect for fall gatherings, family reunions, Halloween, and seasonal celebrations.
How much water is needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 1 cup of water.
Should the apples be refrigerated to set the candy?
No, they should be allowed to cool and harden at room temperature.
Can kids help make these?
Yes, it is a great activity for both kids and adults, though adults should handle the hot candy mixture.
What texture can I expect from the finished product?
You can expect a satisfying crunch from the hard candy shell followed by the crispness of a fresh apple.
What size apples are best for this recipe?
Medium-sized apples are recommended for this specific ingredient ratio.
How much vanilla extract is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
What should I do with excess candy after dipping the apple?
Allow any excess candy to drip off the apple back into the pan before placing the apple on the baking sheet.
How much granulated sugar is used?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of granulated sugar.
Is this recipe considered family-friendly?
Yes, it is tagged as a family-friendly recipe and a fun holiday treat.
What is the preparation for the apples?
Preparation involves removing the stems, washing, and drying the apples thoroughly.
When do I remove the saucepan from the heat?
Remove the saucepan promptly as soon as the candy thermometer reaches exactly 300°F.
How much ground cloves are used?
The recipe requires 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves.
What category of food does this recipe fall under?
This recipe falls under the dessert and sweet snacks categories, specifically as a fall and holiday treat.