Red Glossy Candy Apples

Name: Red Glossy Candy Apples
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji); 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); Wooden sticks for dipping

Highlighted under: Home Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making Red Glossy Candy Apples, especially during the fall season. There's something incredibly satisfying about dipping fresh apples into vibrant, sweet candy coating that gives them their signature glossy finish. The process is surprisingly simple, and the results are both visually stunning and deliciously sweet. Whether I'm preparing these for a fun fall gathering or simply indulging my sweet tooth, every bite is a crunchy, sugary delight that brings back cherished childhood memories.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-02-15T01:45:36.203Z

Making Red Glossy Candy Apples is such a nostalgic experience for me. I remember the first time I tried them at a fall fair, and I was immediately captivated by their shiny red exterior and sweet crunch. As I started experimenting in my kitchen, I discovered that the key to achieving that perfect glossy finish lies in cooking the sugar to just the right temperature before dipping the apples, ensuring they’re perfectly coated.

This recipe not only yields beautiful candy apples but also caters to your creativity! You can easily mix in different flavors or colors for the candy coating, personalizing them for any occasion. I found that adding a touch of cinnamon to the sugar mixture really elevates the taste while keeping things festive.

Why You'll Love These
The stunning red color makes them a showstopper at any party.
Perfectly crunchy texture paired with a sweet, glossy coating.
Fun to make and even more fun to eat, perfect for all ages.

Choosing the Right Apples

Selecting the right type of apple is crucial for achieving the best candy apple. Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji boast a crisp texture that holds up well during the dipping process. Additionally, their tartness balances the sweetness of the candy coating, creating a delicious contrast. If you're feeling adventurous, try using Honeycrisp apples for extra sweetness or even a seasonal variety like Cortland for a different flavor profile.

Make sure the apples are fresh and free of blemishes. A good tip is to inspect them closely; blemished apples can affect the overall presentation of your finished candy apples. Additionally, if you prefer a more unusual appearance, consider using colored apples like Sweetango or Opal, which can add a fun twist to your treat.

Mastering the Candy Coating

The candy coating is where the magic happens! As the sugar mixture heats up, it goes through a transformation that gives it the perfect glossy finish. Ensure that you have a reliable candy thermometer on hand; without it, it’s easy to overshoot the necessary temperature of 300°F (150°C). If you don’t have one, look for visual cues—when the mixture turns a deep amber color and threads can be formed when dripped from a spoon, you're close.

For a smoother texture, I recommend sifting the sugar before mixing it into the saucepan to eliminate any lumps. This small step ensures a flawless consistency that glides over the apples effortlessly. If you want to experiment, try adding flavored extracts like vanilla or almond once the mixture has reached the right temperature; just be careful as adding it can cause the bubbling to intensify.

Ingredients

Candy Apple Ingredients

6 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/4 teaspoon red food coloring
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Wooden sticks for dipping

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Remove any wax residue by rubbing them with a paper towel. Insert wooden sticks into the top of each apple.

Cook the Candy Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, corn syrup, and cinnamon (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat and bring to a boil. Stop stirring and let the mixture boil until it reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.

Add Food Coloring

Once the mixture reaches the right temperature, remove it from heat and carefully stir in the red food coloring until well combined.

Dip the Apples

Quickly dip each prepared apple into the candy mixture, rotating to coat evenly. Allow any excess candy to drip off before placing the apple on a greased baking sheet.

Cool and Set

Let the candy apples cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

To avoid the candy mixture hardening too quickly, work efficiently and have everything prepared beforehand. You can also experiment with different food coloring to create an array of candy apples.

Storage and Shelf Life

Candy apples are best enjoyed on the same day they're made to ensure optimal crunchiness and freshness. If you need to store them, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Be sure to keep them away from moisture, as humidity can cause the candy coating to become sticky and lose its sheen.

If you want to make these apples ahead of time, consider preparing the apples and candy mixture separately. You can dip the apples closer to your serving time, which maintains the glossy finish and crispness. If you plan to serve them at a later date, try wrapping each apple in cellophane to protect them from air exposure and to keep them looking pretty.

Serving Suggestions

Candy apples are versatile in presentation. Consider arranging them on a rustic wooden board for a charming autumn-inspired display, or insert them into a foam block to keep them upright for easier serving. For a festive touch, you can sprinkle crushed nuts or festive sprinkles onto the candy coating while it's still warm, adding extra texture and flavor.

If you're preparing them for specific events, like Halloween or Thanksgiving, personalize the decoration by using colored candy melts for coating or adding themed toppers for a fun and festive twist. Remember to pair your candy apples with a variety of drinks; warm cider or a cold glass of cranberry punch complement the sweet and crunchy treat beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji apples are popular, feel free to use any apples you enjoy.

→ How do I store the candy apples?

Store the candy apples in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add flavors to the candy coating?

Yes! You can experiment with vanilla, almond extract, or even flavored oils for a unique taste.

→ What do I do if the candy coating doesn't stick?

Ensure that the apples are clean and dry before dipping. If the coating doesn't stick, it may be due to moisture on the apples.