Fall is the perfect time for sweet treats, and nothing says autumn quite like candy apples. These homemade candy apples are quick and simple, made with just a few ingredients you likely already have at home. With a glossy red coating and the crisp crunch of fresh apples inside, they’re a nostalgic treat for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re celebrating Halloween, hosting a fall festival, or just craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, it only takes 30 minutes from start to finish!

Fall calls for these easy candy apples made from scratch with just 3 ingredients and 30 minutes!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: 6

Calories: 318 kcal

Author: Kellie

Cost: $10

Equipment

• 1 large saucepan
• 1 candy thermometer
• 12 corn dog sticks (or wooden skewers)
• 1 baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cooking spray

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ⅕ cup corn syrup (for that glossy, hard candy texture)
• 4/7 cup water (helps dissolve the sugar evenly)
• ⅜ teaspoon red food coloring (for that iconic red candy look)
• 6 small-medium apples (firm and washed; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Insert a corn dog stick into the stem end of each apple, pushing it about halfway through until it feels secure. Make sure the apples are clean and dry, as moisture can prevent the candy coating from sticking. Set the apples aside on a clean surface.

Step 2: Line the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any drips from the candy coating. Generously coat the parchment paper with cooking spray to ensure the finished candy apples do not stick when you transfer them later.

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Step 3: Make the Candy Coating

In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water over high heat. Stir the mixture gently until the sugar is fully dissolved. Once dissolved, bring it to a boil without stirring, then reduce the heat to medium. Carefully stir in the red food coloring until the mixture is uniformly colored. Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and continue boiling until it reaches the Hard Crack stage, which is between 300-310 degrees Fahrenheit. This process will take approximately 15-20 minutes, so keep a close eye on the temperature to avoid burning the sugar.

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Step 4: Dip the Apples

Once the candy mixture reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This resting period helps the bubbles settle, resulting in a smoother candy coating. Quickly dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, turning it to ensure it is evenly coated. Allow any excess candy to drip off before proceeding to the next apple. Work quickly, as the candy will start to harden as it cools.

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Step 5: Cool the Apples

Transfer the coated apples to the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart to avoid sticking together as they cool. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature, which should take about 10-15 minutes, until the candy coating hardens.

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Notes

• The candy apples can be made up to two days in advance and stored at room temperature. To maintain freshness, keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 318 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 83g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 10mg
• Potassium: 194mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 76g
• Vitamin A: 100 IU
• Vitamin C: 8.3mg
• Calcium: 12mg
• Iron: 0.3mg

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