Trick-or-Treat Candy Apple Slices (Print View)

Apple wedges coated in sweet, vibrant candy and delightful toppings. Perfect for festive celebrations and parties.

# Components:

→ Fruit

01 - 2 large crisp apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and cut into 6 wedges each
02 - Lemon juice, for brushing apple slices

→ Candy Coating

03 - 1 cup granulated sugar
04 - 1/3 cup light corn syrup
05 - 1/3 cup water
06 - 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
07 - Food coloring (red, orange, or desired colors)
08 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Decorations (optional)

09 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
10 - 1/4 cup crushed nuts (peanuts, almonds, or pecans)
11 - 1/4 cup assorted sprinkles

# Directions:

01 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Core and wedge apples into six pieces each. Insert popsicle sticks or sturdy skewers into the base of each apple wedge. Lightly brush cut surfaces with lemon juice to prevent discoloration.
02 - Combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar in a heavy saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar is fully dissolved.
03 - Bring mixture swiftly to a boil without additional stirring. Continue to cook until syrup registers 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer, reaching hard crack stage, typically in 8 to 10 minutes.
04 - Remove saucepan from heat immediately. Stir in desired food coloring and vanilla extract swiftly until evenly dispersed.
05 - Working quickly, immerse each apple wedge into hot candy syrup, ensuring a uniform coating. Allow excess to drip off and place coated slices on prepared parchment-lined baking sheet.
06 - If preferred, immediately garnish with mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or assorted sprinkles before candy coating hardens.
07 - Let coated apple slices cool and harden fully at room temperature prior to serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick to make and no specialized candy skills required
  • Easy for kids to eat without sticky hands everywhere
  • Customizable with festive toppings and food coloring
  • Guaranteed crowd-pleaser for parties
  • All you need are basic pantry items and fresh apples
02 -
  • Can be made nut-free and dairy-free with careful topping selection
  • A great gluten-free dessert for holiday tables
  • Candy coating becomes crisp and snappy once cooled
  • Each apple slice is a perfect handheld treat for kids and adults
03 -
  • Work quickly once the syrup is at temperature or it can seize up
  • If making with kids line up decorations before you start dipping
  • Never skip parchment paper the slices will stick to bare pans
  • If you want a light drizzle of chocolate wait until the candy coating is totally set first
  • I found that letting kids pick their own toppings and colors helps make memories and keeps everyone engaged

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