Red Glossy Candy Apples

Name: Red Glossy Candy Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 medium apples (Fuji or Granny Smith); 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup corn syrup; 1/2 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring; Wooden sticks (for skewering)

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Favorites

I absolutely love making Red Glossy Candy Apples during the festive season! The vibrant red color and glossy finish always catch my eye and make for an irresistible treat. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, I'm able to create these delightful, crunchy apples that make my gatherings so much sweeter. Whether for a party or just to indulge in a little nostalgia, I can’t get enough of that satisfying crunch paired with the sugary glaze. Let's get started!

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-10T18:41:36.203Z

Reflecting on my childhood, I remember the joyful sound of the candy apple stall at fairs and festivals. After numerous attempts at recreating that nostalgia at home, I finally perfected the art of making Red Glossy Candy Apples. I learned that the key to achieving that beautiful sheen is working with the right temperature of sugar. A candy thermometer makes all the difference!

What truly elevates these apples is the crunch of a fresh, crisp apple against the thick candy coating. I’ve experimented with various apple varieties and found that sweet-tart apples like Fuji or Granny Smith work best for balancing the sugary coating. The result is pure perfection that I just can’t resist!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Beautifully bright and glossy presentation
A satisfying crunch with each bite
Perfect for festive gatherings and as a fun treat

Choosing the Right Apples

When making Red Glossy Candy Apples, selecting the right apple variety is crucial. Fuji and Granny Smith apples are popular choices due to their firm texture and balanced tartness. The tartness of Granny Smith helps to offset the sweetness of the candy coating, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. Additionally, choosing medium-sized apples ensures that they fit comfortably on wooden sticks and will be easier to handle while coating.

It's essential to inspect your apples for any blemishes or waxy coatings, as these can prevent the candy from adhering properly. Give them a thorough wash to remove any wax – I often use a produce scrubber for this purpose. After washing, ensure they're completely dry; moisture can interfere with the candy coating process.

Perfecting the Candy Coating

The candy coating is where the magic happens, transforming ordinary apples into sparkling treats. During the cooking process, the mixture should boil without stirring after the sugar has dissolved. This helps to achieve the necessary temperature for the hard crack stage at 300°F. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy – if you don’t have one, watch for the mixture to become thick and similar to syrup, with small bubbles forming vigorously.

Once your candy mixture reaches the right temperature, it's time to add the red food coloring. Make sure to mix thoroughly; you want a vibrant, uniform color that enhances the visual appeal. If you're looking for an alternative color, consider using natural options like beet juice or pomegranate juice, but be aware that the flavor might slightly alter the final taste.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your candy apples have set and hardened, they can be stored in a cool, dry place. To maintain their glossy finish, I recommend wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or placing them in a container lined with parchment paper. They can last for a few days, but the texture is best within the first 24 hours when the crunch is most satisfying.

Serving these candy apples at your next gathering is a delightful experience. Consider placing them as centerpieces on a festive table or offering a variety of coating options, such as crushed nuts or sprinkles, for a fun twist. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even drizzle them with melted chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to craft your Red Glossy Candy Apples:

Ingredients

8 medium apples (Fuji or Granny Smith)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup corn syrup
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring
Wooden sticks (for skewering)

Once you have everything ready, it’s time to get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely to achieve flawless candy apples:

Prepare the Apples

Wash the apples thoroughly and dry them well. Insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple, twisting slightly to secure.

Make the Candy Coating

In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring, and cook until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.

Add Color

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the red food coloring until well combined.

Coat the Apples

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

Set and Serve

Let the candy apples sit at room temperature until the coating hardens. Serve immediately or store in a cool, dry place.

Enjoy your homemade Red Glossy Candy Apples!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider dipping the apples in crushed nuts or sprinkles right after coating them with candy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your candy coating isn't sticking to the apples, it may be due to moisture. Ensure apples are completely dry and try reheating the candy mixture slightly while ensuring it doesn’t cool too much before dipping. If you find the candy coating is too hard and shattering, it may have been cooked too long. Future batches can be monitored closely to avoid overshooting the desired temperature.

In some cases, you might notice the candy coating is dull instead of glossy. This could happen if the mixture is not brought to the right temperature. Make sure to aim for the hard crack stage, and avoid stirring during boiling to prevent crystallization, which can result in a matte finish.

Variations to Try

For a unique twist on traditional candy apples, consider experimenting with different flavorings. Adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of cinnamon to the candy mixture can give your apples an exciting flavor dimension. You could also try incorporating flavored extracts such as almond or peppermint depending on the season.

Another fun idea is to create themed candy apples by incorporating colors to match holidays or events. For example, add green food coloring for Halloween or small decorations for a birthday party. This not only makes them visually appealing but also personalizes them to your celebrations.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re looking to make a larger batch of candy apples, scaling the recipe is straightforward. Just keep the ratios of sugar, corn syrup, and water consistent. Since the cooking time may vary based on the volume of the mixture, use a larger pot and ensure the heat is distributed evenly to prevent burning. Always monitor the temperature closely using a reliable candy thermometer.

For smaller batches, you can easily half the ingredients while still ensuring the same delightful crunch. Just be mindful that cooking times may change. Always check for the correct temperature to guarantee successful candy coating, no matter the size of your batch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, any firm apples will work, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp give a wonderful contrast.

→ How do I store leftover candy apples?

Store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid refrigeration as it can make the candy coating sticky.

→ How can I make the candy coating stick better?

Ensure the apples are completely dry and clean before dipping them into the candy mixture.

→ Can I color the candy coating differently?

Absolutely! You can use different food colorings to create a variety of colors for different occasions.