Few things say fall like apples. Whether you’re fresh from the orchard or picking up a bag at the market, there are endless ways to enjoy this versatile fruit.
One of our favorites is candied apples and with this recipe and topping ideas, they’re sure to become yours too
How to Make Candied Apples at Home
Ingredients (basic candy coating):
- 6 small to medium apples
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup water
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- Red food coloring (optional)
- Wooden sticks
Steps:
- Prep the apples: Wash and dry well, then insert wooden sticks into the tops.
- Make the coating: In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Heat over medium-high until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage) on a candy thermometer. Add food coloring if desired.
- Dip and twist: Carefully dip each apple into the hot syrup, turning to coat evenly. Let excess drip off.
- Set the apples: Place on a parchment-lined tray to harden.
- Customize: While still sticky, roll in toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or crushed cookies. Or let them set plain for a glossy finish.
Pro tips:
For variety, swap the candy shell for melted caramel or chocolate as your base.
Always be careful with hot sugar as it is extremely hot.
Classic Red Candied Apples
Shiny, deep red, and crunchy, these are the fairground originals. Made with sugar syrup and food coloring, they have that nostalgic crackle when you bite in.
Best for: Halloween parties or a traditional fall treat.
Caramel-Dipped Apples
Soft, chewy caramel wrapped around tart apples is a timeless favorite. Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for balance and a gourmet touch.
Best for: Kids’ parties or gift baskets.
Chocolate-Coated Apples
Dip apples in melted milk, dark, or white chocolate. Once set, drizzle with contrasting chocolate for a bakery-style finish.
Best for: A crowd-pleasing dessert bar.
Toffee-Crunch Apples
After dipping in caramel or chocolate, roll apples in crushed toffee bits or hard butterscotch candy.
Best for: Sweet tooths who love extra crunch.
Peanut Butter Lovers’ Apples
Cover apples in a thin layer of peanut butter before dipping in chocolate. Finish with a roll through chopped peanuts.
Best for: A salty-sweet snack that tastes like a giant candy bar.
Cookie Crumble Apples
Dip in caramel or chocolate, then roll in crushed Oreos, gingersnaps, or graham crackers for texture and flavor.
Best for: Fun, customizable flavors the whole family can help create.
S’mores Apples
After coating in chocolate, roll the apples in crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows. Toast the marshmallows lightly with a kitchen torch for authentic campfire vibes.
Best for: Cozy fall nights and bonfire parties.
Sprinkle Party Apples
Go festive with rainbow sprinkles, Halloween jimmies, or holiday-themed sugar after dipping. Simple but always cheerful.
Best for: Birthdays or any themed celebration.
Cinnamon-Sugar Apples
Dip apples in caramel, then roll in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a churro-inspired treat.
Best for: Autumn fairs and warm, cozy flavors.
Pistachio-Crusted Apples
For a grown-up twist, dip apples in dark chocolate, then coat with chopped pistachios. The salty-nutty crunch balances the sweetness beautifully.
Best for: Dinner parties or edible gifts.