Old Fashioned Red Candied Apples

Get ready to relive the nostalgia of carnival treats with these dazzling Old Fashioned Red Candied Apples! Crisp, tart Granny Smith apples are enveloped in a glossy, ruby-red candy shell that provides the perfect crunch with every bite. This classic recipe combines simple pantry staples like granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and red food coloring to create a stunning homemade treat that's both fun to make and visually striking. With the added option of a hint of vanilla extract for depth, this eye-catching confection is ideal for autumn parties, festive gatherings, or Halloween celebrations. Easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, these candied apples will bring a touch of old-fashioned charm to any occasion.

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 6 pieces Granny Smith apples (or other tart apples)
• 6 pieces Wooden sticks (popsicle sticks or skewers)
• 2 cups Granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup Light corn syrup
• 0.5 cup Water
• 1 teaspoon Red food coloring
• 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla extract (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Wash and dry the apples thoroughly to remove any wax coating that could prevent the candy from sticking. Insert a wooden stick into the stem end of each apple, pushing about halfway in. Set aside on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 2

In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to splash the sides of the pan.

Step 3

Place the saucepan over medium heat and heat the mixture without stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved.

Step 4

Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, ensuring the tip is submerged in the mixture but not touching the bottom. Increase the heat slightly and cook the sugar syrup until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). If you don't have a thermometer, you can test a small drop of the syrup in cold water—it should harden instantly and break cleanly when removed.

Step 5

Once the syrup reaches the correct temperature, remove it from the heat and carefully stir in the red food coloring and vanilla extract (if using). Work quickly as the mixture will begin to harden.

Step 6

Tilt the saucepan slightly and carefully dip each apple into the syrup, turning to coat it completely in the candy coating. Let the excess drip off, then place the apple back onto the parchment-lined sheet to cool and harden. Repeat with all apples.

Step 7

Allow the candied apples to cool completely at room temperature before serving. Store any leftovers in a cool, dry place for up to 2 days (do not refrigerate as this can cause the coating to become sticky).

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1849.3 grams (1849.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2497

Total Fat 2.40g	3%
Saturated Fat 0.40g	2%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 33mg	1%
Total Carbohydrate 657.00g	239%
Dietary Fiber 28.80g	103%
Total Sugars 609.00g
Protein 3.60g	7%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 79mg	6%
Iron 1mg	7%
Potassium 1287mg	27%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 0.8%

Protein: 0.5%

Carbs: 98.6%