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These easy homemade candy apples bring back memories of autumn fairs and Halloween parties. After years of making them I've discovered the secrets to creating that perfect glossy shell that shatters when you bite into it revealing the crisp juicy apple beneath. The best part? They're simpler to make than you might think.
A Show-Stopping Sweet
There's something magical about making candy apples at home. The way that bright red candy coating catches the light makes them look like jewels. My kitchen fills with excitement when I make these especially when little helpers gather around to watch the transformation. They're perfect for parties because they double as decorations until it's time for dessert.
What You'll Need
- Apples: 12 small ones pick firm crisp fruit.
- Sticks: 12 sturdy ones for easy handling.
- Sugar: 3 cups regular granulated.
- Corn Syrup: ½ cup light works best.
- Water: 1 cup plain tap is fine.
- Food Coloring: ½ teaspoon get the bright red kind.
- Equipment: Don't skip the candy thermometer.
Let's Make Magic
- Get Those Apples Ready
- Give them a good hot bath to remove any wax then dry them completely this step is crucial for success.
- Create Your Candy
- Watch that thermometer carefully as your sugar mixture bubbles away to perfection.
- Add Some Color
- Stir in that food coloring watching it transform into the most beautiful shade of red.
- Time to Dip
- Work quickly but carefully giving each apple a perfect candy coat.
- The Final Touch
- Let them set until that candy shell is perfectly hard and shiny.
Success Secrets
The secret to perfect homemade candy apples is all in the prep work. Those apples need to be completely wax-free and dry before dipping. Keep a close eye on your candy temperature and work quickly once it's ready. I always keep my apples at room temperature they coat better that way.
Serve and Store
Once your candy apples are set display them proudly on your dessert table. They look stunning nestled in colorful cupcake wrappers. If you need to store them keep them in a cool dry spot but honestly they're so irresistible they rarely last more than a day at my house.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why remove the wax from apples?
- Store-bought apples have a waxy coating that prevents the candy from sticking. A quick dip in hot vinegar water removes the wax for better candy adhesion.
- → What if the candy mixture hardens too quickly?
- Simply reheat the mixture over medium heat until it softens again. Then continue dipping the apples.
- → Why use a candy thermometer?
- The candy must reach exactly 300°F (hard crack stage) to achieve the right texture. A thermometer ensures perfect results.
- → Can I use different apple varieties?
- Yes, any variety of small red or green apples works well. Choose fresh, firm apples for best results.
- → How should I serve candy apples?
- Colorful cupcake wrappers make a fun presentation for parties. They also help catch any drips and make the apples easier to hold.