Description
Sunset Glow Candy Apples are easier than you think! Learn my personal tips, tricks, and “oops” moments for these vibrant, crunchy treats.
Ingredients
Scale
- Apple Base:
- 6 small-medium firm apples (like Granny Smith or Fuji)
- Candy Coating Essentials:
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup water
- Flavor & Color Boosters:
- 1 teaspoon red liquid food coloring
- 1/2 teaspoon yellow liquid food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Finishing Touches:
- 6 wooden candy apple sticks
Instructions
- Prep Your Apples:: First things first, wash those apples really well. Like, scrub them. Most store-bought apples have a waxy coating, and if you don’t get it off, your candy won’t stick. I learned this the hard way when my first batch of candy apples looked like they were shedding their skin. Dry them completely, then firmly insert a wooden stick into the stem end of each apple. Set them aside on a parchment-lined baking sheet – you’ll thank me later for this parchment tip!
- Make the Candy Syrup:: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir it gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Don’t stir too vigorously once it starts boiling, or you risk crystallization – a common mistake I used to make! Once it’s boiling, insert your candy thermometer. This is where patience is key. Let it boil, undisturbed, until it reaches 300°F (149°C), also known as the “hard crack” stage. Seriously, this thermometer is non-negotiable for perfect Sunset Glow Candy Apples.
- Add Color and Flavor:: Once your syrup hits 300°F, immediately remove it from the heat. Stir in the red and yellow liquid food coloring, along with the vanilla extract. Be quick but gentle. The color will transform into that gorgeous, fiery sunset hue right before your eyes – it’s honestly pretty magical to watch! This is the moment your plain sugar syrup becomes the vibrant coating for your Sunset Glow Candy Apples. Work fast, as the syrup will start to cool and thicken.
- Dip Your Sunset Glow Candy Apples:: Now for the fun part! Tilt your saucepan slightly to create a deeper pool of syrup. Carefully dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, rotating it to coat completely. Let any excess drip off back into the pan. I usually give it a little swirl and a tap against the side of the pan. Don’t let it pool too much at the bottom, or you’ll have thick, uneven spots – another oops moment I’ve had! This step really makes your Sunset Glow Candy Apples shine.
- Cool and Set:: As soon as each apple is coated, place it stick-side up on your prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t touching each other, or they’ll stick together while cooling. Let them sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until the candy shell is completely hardened and glossy. Honestly, it’s hard to wait, but that crisp, satisfying crunch is worth it. You’ll hear a little “tap, tap” if you gently knock on the hardened shell of your candy apples.
- Enjoy Your Creation:: Once fully cooled and hardened, your beautiful Sunset Glow Candy Apples are ready to be devoured! The shell should be perfectly crisp and shiny, almost like glass. I love seeing the vibrant red and orange hues reflecting the light. It’s such a satisfying sight after all that careful work. Share them with friends, or hoard them all to yourself – I won’t tell! They’re a truly special treat that brings smiles.