Red Glossy Candy Apples

Name: Red Glossy Candy Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith); 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup corn syrup; 1/2 cup water; 1 teaspoon red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vinegar; Wooden sticks or skewers

Highlighted under: Festive Kitchen Delights

I absolutely love making Red Glossy Candy Apples! There's something so nostalgic about biting into a shiny, sweet apple covered in a thick layer of glossy candy. Each time I prepare this treat, I'm reminded of state fairs and autumn festivals. The vibrant red hue is not only inviting, but the crunch and sweet flavor create a delightful contrast that makes them irresistible. With just a few ingredients, I can create a fun and festive dessert that brings joy to both kids and adults alike!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:55:36.190Z

When I first attempted to make Red Glossy Candy Apples at home, I was amazed at how simple yet rewarding the process was. I discovered that using a candy thermometer is essential to achieving the perfect consistency; if the syrup isn't hot enough, it won’t coat the apples properly. I also love how the glossy shine makes them look incredibly enticing on a party table!

Another tip I picked up is to use freshly washed apples, as the candy adheres better to them when they're clean. I often choose tart apples to balance the sweetness of the candy coating. These apples not only taste great, but they also bring a striking pop of color that elevates any gathering!

Why You'll Love These Apples
A sweet treat that is visually stunning and fun to make
The perfect balance of tartness from the apple and sweetness from the candy
A delightful nostalgia that evokes memories of fall fairs and festivals

Choosing the Right Apples

Using the right variety of apples is crucial for creating a perfect candy apple. Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness, which beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the candy coating. Their firm texture also holds up well against the heavy syrup, ensuring that you get a satisfying crunch when you bite into them. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider using Fuji or Honeycrisp apples, but keep in mind that their sweetness may alter the overall balance of flavors in this treat.

Before dipping, ensure your apples are clean and dry. Any moisture on the surface can prevent the candy coating from sticking properly, leading to uneven coverage and potentially causing the coating to slide off. I find that giving the apples a quick rinse and then thoroughly drying them with a kitchen towel yields the best results. If you want, you can also chill the apples for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator; this helps the candy set more quickly once coated.

Mastering the Candy Coating

For the candy coating, precision is key. The sugar mixture should reach a hard crack stage at exactly 300°F, which creates that signature glossy finish and satisfying crunch. A reliable candy thermometer is invaluable here, as it takes the guesswork out of the process. If your temperature exceeds this point, you risk burning the sugar, which will result in a bitter taste. Conversely, if the syrup isn't hot enough, it won’t set correctly and will remain sticky.

Once your mixture reaches temperature, remove it from the heat immediately to avoid further cooking. Adding the food coloring and vinegar (which helps stabilize the color) must be done quickly, as the mixture will begin to cool and thicken rapidly. I recommend having all your materials ready before you start, so you can work efficiently and achieve an even coating on each apple without delay.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

These candy apples are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a short period. After they’ve set, keep them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Avoid refrigerating them, as this can cause condensation to form, making the coating sticky. They will retain their best flavor and crispness for about 2 to 3 days if properly stored, but it's optimal to serve them the same day they’re made for maximum enjoyment.

For a fun twist, consider adding toppings after coating the apples. Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of white chocolate can elevate their appearance and flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try infusing the candy coating with different flavor extracts such as cinnamon or almond, or tint the coating with other colors for holidays or special occasions. These variations not only enhance the look of these treats but also provide an exciting taste experience!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients for Red Glossy Candy Apples

6 medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup corn syrup
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vinegar
Wooden sticks or skewers

Make sure to use wooden sticks for an easy grip!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your candy apples:

Prepare the Apples

Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple, pushing it about halfway through. This will be the handle.

Make the Candy Coating

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Stop stirring and let it boil until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.

Add Color and Vinegar

Once the mixture reaches 300°F, remove it from the heat and carefully stir in the red food coloring and vinegar.

Coat the Apples

Quickly dip each apple into the candy mixture, swirling to coat evenly. Allow excess candy to drip off before placing the apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Let Them Set

Allow the candy apples to cool and harden for about 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your glossy candy apples!

Pro Tips

Always use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature readings, and be cautious with the hot sugar syrup to avoid burns.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find the candy coating isn't adhering well to the apples, the most likely culprit is excess moisture. Ensure the apples are thoroughly dried and consider warming them slightly before dipping. Alternatively, if the candy coating is too thick, it may not coat evenly. You could try adding a teaspoon of water to the mixture while heating to adjust the consistency for a smoother application.

On the flip side, if your candy is too runny and not setting properly, it may not have reached the hard crack stage. If this happens, don't fret—just reheat the mixture while stirring and monitor the temperature more closely this time. You can also opt to chill the apples briefly before dipping them again, which can help encourage the candy to stick better.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up is simple and straightforward. For larger gatherings or parties, you can easily double or triple the amount of sugar, corn syrup, and water while keeping the same number of apples. Just ensure you have a larger saucepan for heating the candy mixture, as you’ll need enough room to prevent it from bubbling over.

However, when scaling down, keep in mind that making fewer apples may require slight adjustments in cooking time as the candy will heat and cool faster in smaller batches. Aim for a single or double batch for the best results and minimum waste. It's a delightful project that can easily fit your needs, from a few apples for a snack to a whole platter for sharing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different flavors of food coloring?

Yes! You can experiment with different colors or even blend colors for a unique effect.

→ What type of apples work best for candied apples?

Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal as they contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the candy.

→ How long do the candy apples last?

Candy apples are best enjoyed fresh but can typically last a day or two if stored in a cool, dry place.

→ Can I add toppings like nuts or sprinkles?

Absolutely! You can sprinkle chopped nuts or colorful sprinkles on the candy coating before it hardens for added texture and flavor.