Glossy Cinnamon Candy Apples

Name: Glossy Cinnamon Candy Apples
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional); 8 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety); Wooden sticks or skewers

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Recipes

I love making Glossy Cinnamon Candy Apples, particularly during fall. There’s something magical about the combination of sweet, glossy coating and the crunchy bite of fresh apples. Each time I prepare these treats, I’m reminded of autumn festivities and fairs filled with tempting aromas. The bright, candy-red finish is not only stunning but also incredibly satisfying to create. It comes together quickly, and the joy they bring to both my family and friends is immeasurable.

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:09:36.584Z

When crafting these candy apples, I found that using tart apples like Granny Smith balances out the sweetness of the candy coating beautifully. I remember my first attempt being slightly sticky, but after experimenting with the sugar to water ratio, I achieved that perfect glossy finish. The process is surprisingly straightforward, and I love how festive they look!

One tip I discovered while making them is to let the apples cool briefly after dipping them in so the candy can set perfectly. It’s a treat I often prepare for gatherings, and the enchanting scent of cinnamon fills the kitchen, creating a delightful atmosphere.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors.
Visually stunning, turning heads at any gathering.
Easy to make and incredibly fun for kids to help!

Choosing the Right Apples

The type of apple you select can significantly affect the flavor and texture of your Glossy Cinnamon Candy Apples. For a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, I recommend using Granny Smith apples. Their firm texture holds up well against the hot candy coating, ensuring a satisfying crunch with each bite. Alternatively, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples can provide a sweeter bite with a juicy texture that pairs beautifully with the spicy candy coating.

Keep in mind that the freshness of your apples matters too. Choose apples that are firm and free from blemishes for the best results. Make sure to wash them thoroughly under hot water before preparing; this step helps to remove any waxy residue, allowing the candy coating to adhere properly.

Techniques for Perfecting the Candy Coating

Achieving the perfect candy coating is crucial for that glossy finish and satisfying crunch. When cooking the sugar mixture, use a candy thermometer and monitor the temperature closely. The goal is to reach 300°F, the hard crack stage, where the mixture becomes crisp once cooled. Be patient and resist the temptation to stir once it starts boiling; this can cause crystallization, resulting in a grainy texture instead of the desired smooth finish.

If you choose to add red food coloring, do so right after reaching the desired temperature. Doing this when the candy is hot allows the color to evenly distribute and create a vibrant candy apple exterior. A general rule of thumb is to start with a few drops, stirring well, and adjusting to your desired shade.

Troubleshooting Your Candy Apples

If your candy coating isn’t adhering to the apples, it could be due to residual moisture on the surface. Ensure that each apple is thoroughly dried after washing. If you find that the candy coating is too thin or not crisping up, it may not have reached the hard crack stage. Next time, allow the mixture to boil slightly longer while keeping a close eye on the thermometer.

For variations, consider adding toppings after dipping the apples. Chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut can enhance both flavor and visual appeal. Just remember to add these toppings quickly before the candy sets for optimal stickiness.

Ingredients

For the Candy Coating

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
8 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
Wooden sticks or skewers

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Start by washing the apples thoroughly under hot water to remove any wax. Dry them completely with a clean kitchen towel, then insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple, about halfway through.

Make the Candy Coating

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and ground cinnamon. Over medium heat, stir until the sugar dissolves, then let it boil without stirring until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). If using, add red food coloring to achieve a vibrant finish.

Dip the Apples

Once the candy reaches the desired temperature, remove it from heat. Quickly dip each apple into the candy coating, swirling to cover. Allow excess candy to drip off before placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Set & Enjoy

Let the apples set at room temperature until the candy hardens completely. Serve and enjoy as a festive treat!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add nuts or sprinkles to the candy coating while it’s still warm. If the candy cools too quickly and becomes hard, just reheat it gently to make it workable again.

Storage Tips for Leftover Apples

Once the candy apples have set, it’s best to consume them within a few days for optimal freshness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crispy. Avoid refrigeration as it can cause the candy coating to become sticky. If you notice any signs of melting or stickiness, reroll them in granulated sugar to restore texture before serving.

For a longer-lasting treat, consider wrapping each apple in parchment paper or plastic wrap. This prevents them from sticking together, making it easy to grab one whenever the craving hits.

Creative Serving Ideas

Transform your Glossy Cinnamon Candy Apples into an elegant dessert by placing them on a decorative platter. You can drizzle some white chocolate over the top for contrast or sprinkle with sea salt for an exciting sweet-and-salty twist. This presentation will be the centerpiece at any fall gathering.

If you’re looking to add a festive touch, consider creating a candy apple bar at parties. Set up toppings such as crushed cookies, caramel drizzle, and different colored sprinkles, allowing guests to customize their own treats. This not only provides a fun activity but also caters to various preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal for balancing the sweetness, feel free to use your favorites.

→ How should I store leftover candy apples?

Store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness.

→ What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

You can test for the hard crack stage by dropping a small amount of the hot syrup into cold water. It should form hard, brittle threads.

→ Can I add flavors to the candy coating?

Yes! You can experiment with vanilla extract, almond extract, or even flavored oils to customize your candy coating.