Candied apples are a timeless fall treat—shiny, sweet, and just a little bit crunchy. Whether you’re making them for a Halloween party, a fall festival, or just because, they’re an easy way to turn simple apples into something special. This roundup has some of the best candied apple recipes out there, from classic red candy shells to gourmet twists with chocolate and toppings. Plus, I’ll share a few simple tips so yours turn out glossy and delicious every time.
Basic Tips for Creating Good Candied Apples:
- Choose the right apples: Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness best. Smaller apples are easier to coat and eat.
- Wash well: Remove the wax coating by dipping apples in hot water with a splash of vinegar, then dry completely.
- Use a candy thermometer: The sugar syrup should reach the “hard crack” stage (around 300°F) for the coating to set properly.
- Work quickly: Dip apples right after the syrup hits temperature, before it thickens.
- Prep ahead: Line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat so the apples don’t stick.
Candied Apples
1. These Black Poison Candy Apples are so shiny and pretty. via Fresh Coast Eats
2. These glittery, magical candied apples are so eye-popping because of Jolly Ranchers! via Emmymade
3. What kid wouldn’t be jumping up and down for glow-in-the-dark candied apples? These are fun! via Recipes Zraah
4. Let me just say, these Tahini salted caramel candied apples have me plotting and planning. Wow. via Hungry Couple NYC.
These sticks are made for candied apples because they have a sharp point.
5. Are you a fan of Tajín? If so, you cannot miss this candied apple recipe. via Tasty
6. What can’t you put on a delicious candied apple? This recipe shows you can really go all out. via The Baking ChocolaTess
Grab those gorgeous blinged-out candied apple sticks on Amazon for cheap.
7. Bacon on a candied apple? Sign me up. via Cloverdale
8. Not many food combos put me in a fall feeling more than caramel and apple. Don’t these look extraordinary? via allrecipes
9. Some brilliant mind came up with blackberry jalapeno candied apples, and I’m here for it. via Hot Lollies
Grab a big bag of Jolly Ranchers in bulk! Get yours here.
10. Aren’t these Frozen-themed candied apples cute? They’re made with white chocolate. via Midget Momma
11. These fun and festive Halloween candied apples can be made a couple of days in advance of your party. via Easy Cooking With Molly
12. I’ve never had a Disney caramel apple, but apparently, they’re good enough to warrant this incredible recipe from Five Heart Home.
13. These incredible-looking “Mexican candied apples” feature chamoy and Tajin. via Mexico In My Pocket
Don’t miss our winter holiday baking hub. It’s your go-to guide for all our best fall and winter seasonal baking.
14. Make candied apples for Halloween that feature a fun spider web made out of caramel and chocolate. via Tara Teaspoon
15. How about some cute Snow White candied apples? Kids will love them. via Sugar Spice & Glitter
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Sher Bailey is a writer in the Midwest who believes the power of humor, Mod Podge, and grandkids can fix most problems in life. You can find her at SherBailey.com.
Basketball Stars says
I absolutely love making candied apples during fall! My kids and I started this tradition after getting inspired by those competitive cooking games on Basketball Stars – there’s something about the timing and precision that reminds me of perfecting candy coating. Your tip about removing the wax is crucial; I learned that the hard way when my first batch wouldn’t stick properly. The hard crack stage really makes all the difference for that perfect glossy finish!
Jennifer T Tammy says
Thanks so much for including our Snow White-inspired Poison Apples in this scrumptious candy apple collection!