Mini Candy Apples Sticks (Print Version)

Adorable, bite-sized apples coated in a shiny, crunchy candy shell, ideal for kids and gatherings.

# Ingredient List:

→ Apples

01 - 8 small apples such as Gala or Fuji, or 16 crabapples

→ Candy Coating

02 - 2 cups granulated sugar
03 - ½ cup light corn syrup
04 - ½ cup water
05 - ½ teaspoon red gel food coloring

→ Assembly

06 - 16 wooden sticks, lollipop or popsicle style
07 - Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper

# Recipe Steps:

01 - Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. If using large apples, cut each in half and scoop out the seeds with a small melon baller. Insert a wooden stick firmly into the stem end of each apple or apple half.
02 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease, or spray a silicone mat with nonstick spray.
03 - In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
04 - Increase heat to high, bring the mixture to a boil without stirring, and cook until it reaches 290°F on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage), approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
05 - Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the red gel food coloring until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
06 - Working quickly, dip each apple into the hot candy coating, swirling to coat evenly. Let the excess drip off, then place the apple on the prepared baking sheet.
07 - Let the candy apples cool completely at room temperature until the coating hardens, approximately 10 minutes.
08 - Remove from baking sheet and serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Quick and easy preparation in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Adorable bite-sized portions perfect for parties and little hands
  • Customizable with different colors and toppings to match any theme
  • Naturally vegetarian, nut-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free
  • Creates a stunning, professional-looking dessert with minimal effort
  • Fun activity to do with kids (with adult supervision for the hot candy)
02 -
  • Use a candy thermometer clipped to the side of your pan for hands-free monitoring
  • Tilt the saucepan slightly when dipping to make coating easier with less syrup
  • If air bubbles form in your coating, gently tap the apple on the side of the pan
  • Choose firm, crisp apple varieties like Gala or Fuji for the best texture contrast
  • Make cleanup easier by soaking your saucepan in hot water immediately after use
  • For perfectly even coats, rotate the apple slowly while holding it over the pan to let excess drip off
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