Name: Black Candy Apples
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 8 – 10 pieces apples; 8 – 10 pieces skewers/striped straws; 2 ½ cups sugar; ⅔ cup water; ½ cup light corn syrup; ½ tsp black paste food color; 2 drops cinnamon flavor

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There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and crunchy, and that’s exactly what you get with Black Candy Apples. I remember the first time I saw these at a fall carnival. The glossy, dark coating gleamed under the lights, enticing everyone to take a bite. As a child, I was fascinated by the transformation of a simple apple into an irresistible treat. Fast forward to today, and I still feel that same excitement! Making Black Candy Apples at home not only brings back those sweet memories but also allows for some creative flair. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party, looking for a fun fall activity, or just craving a unique treat, these candy-coated apples are sure to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
170 kcal

Protein:
0 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
0 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why You’ll Love This Black Candy Apples

1. Eye-Catching Presentation

There’s no denying that Black Candy Apples are a feast for the eyes. Their striking appearance makes them the star of any dessert table. The contrast of the shiny black coating against the crisp apple skin is simply stunning. As you dip each apple, the anticipation builds, and you’re left with a beautiful treat that looks as good as it tastes.

2. Perfect for All Ages

These candy apples aren’t just for kids; they’re a hit with adults too. The sweet, crunchy exterior appeals to all ages, making them a fantastic addition to parties or gatherings. Kids will love the fun of eating something so visually appealing, while adults can appreciate the nostalgia and creativity behind this classic treat.

3. Customize Your Flavors

One of the best parts about making Black Candy Apples is the ability to customize them to your liking. While the traditional recipe is delightful, you can easily incorporate your favorite flavors! Consider adding a hint of cinnamon or a splash of food flavoring to make it your own. Want to create a Halloween theme? Get creative with sprinkles, candy eyeballs, or even edible glitter!

4. Fun Activity

Making these candy apples can be an enjoyable family activity. Gather your kids or friends and turn the kitchen into a candy apple factory. It’s a great way to bond, share laughs, and create memories. You’ll not only enjoy delicious treats at the end, but you’ll also have a fun story to tell everyone.

5. Seasonal Treat

As fall approaches, the craving for sweet treats like Black Candy Apples rises. They embody the essence of the season, making them perfect for Halloween parties or autumn festivals. Plus, they’re a great way to get your apple fix while savoring the joys of this wonderful time of year.

6. Easy to Make

Don’t let the glossy finish fool you! These Black Candy Apples are surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a show-stopping dessert that will impress even the most discerning palates. Perfect for those who might not have extensive baking experience but still want to whip up something special!

Recipe Ingredients for Black Candy Apples

When preparing Black Candy Apples, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that signature shine and sweetness. The combination of tart apples and the sugary candy coating creates a delightful contrast in flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need to bring these enchanting treats to life:

8 – 10 apples: Choose crisp, fresh apples for the best taste and texture.
8 – 10 skewers/striped straws: These will serve as the handles for your candy apples.
2 ½ cups sugar: Essential for creating that sweet candy coating.
⅔ cup water: Helps dissolve the sugar and create the syrup.
½ cup light corn syrup: Adds shine and prevents crystallization.
½ tsp black paste food color: Gives the apples their dramatic black exterior.
2 drops cinnamon flavor: A fun flavor twist that complements the sweetness.

How to Make Black Candy Apples

Making Black Candy Apples is a delightful process that combines fun and creativity. By following these steps, you’ll achieve the perfect candy coating and impress everyone with your treat-making skills. Ready? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Start by preparing your workspace. Place parchment paper onto a cookie sheet and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will be where you place your candied apples to set.
Next, wash your apples thoroughly and let them dry completely. Ensuring they are dry helps the candy coating adhere better. Depending on their size, you can aim for about 8 to 10 apples with this recipe.
Once your apples are dry, insert a skewer or striped straw into the top of each apple. Push it in firmly enough that it can hold the weight of the apple when it’s coated in candy.
Now, it’s time to make the candy coating! In a pot, combine sugar, water, and light corn syrup. Turn the heat to medium and stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to boil.
Continue cooking the mixture for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the candy thermometer reads 300 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small amount of the mixture into a cold cup of water; it should form a hard candy, separating easily.
Once the mixture reaches the right temperature, remove it from heat. Stir in the cinnamon flavoring and black paste food color until well combined.
Now comes the fun part! Dip each apple into the candy mixture, making sure to coat it quickly but evenly. Allow any excess candy to drip back into the pot.
Place the coated apples onto the prepared cookie sheet. Let them set for at least 30 minutes until the candy hardens completely.
Once set, your Black Candy Apples are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them whole or cut them into slices for a fun twist at parties.

Things Worth Knowing

Use fresh apples: Select apples that are firm and crisp. They hold their shape better and provide a satisfying crunch.
Temperature check: Make sure your candy mixture reaches the right temperature for a hard candy coating. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
Work quickly: Once your candy coating is ready, dip the apples immediately. The mixture cools quickly, making it harder to coat the apples if you wait.
Cool completely: Allow the coated apples to cool on parchment paper to avoid sticking and ensure a clean finish.

Change It Up

There are so many ways to customize your Black Candy Apples! Here are some tips to spark your creativity:

Storage: Store your candy apples in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can last up to two weeks if pierced, or un-pierced apples can be kept at room temperature for about a week.
Freezing: While it’s not recommended to freeze candy apples, you can freeze uncoated apples for use later. Just thaw them before coating.
Pairing: Serve your Black Candy Apples with a side of caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping, or create a festive display with other fall-themed treats.
Decoration: Get creative with toppings! Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled candy coating or sprinkle with crushed nuts or sprinkles for added flair.
Flavor twists: Experiment with different flavorings! Try adding peppermint, green apple, or even spicy ginger for a unique twist.

What Goes Well With This Black Candy Apples

When serving Black Candy Apples, consider the occasion and setting. Here are some great pairings and suggestions:

Halloween Parties: These apples are a must-have for Halloween festivities. Pair them with themed snacks like ghost-shaped cookies or pumpkin cheesecake.
Fall Gatherings: Serve them alongside other fall harvest treats, such as spiced cider or pumpkin bread, to create a festive atmosphere.
School Events: These candy apples are perfect for school events or autumn festivals. They’re not only fun to eat but also easy to transport and share.
Movie Night: Enjoy these apples during a cozy movie night at home. They make a fun, sweet alternative to regular popcorn and candy.
Outdoor Picnics: Pack your Black Candy Apples for a delightful treat on a fall picnic. They’ll add a touch of whimsy to your outdoor dining experience.

FAQ

Black Candy Apples can last up to two weeks if properly stored in the refrigerator. If they are not pierced, they can be kept at room temperature for about seven days. It’s best to consume them fresh, but proper storage can help extend their life.

Absolutely! While traditional candy apples are often red or black, you can experiment with a variety of colors using different food colorings. This allows you to customize them for different occasions, such as green for a Halloween party or pastel shades for springtime events.

For making candy apples, it’s best to use firm and crisp varieties such as Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp. These apples hold their shape well and provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet candy coating.

Certainly! You can add a range of toppings to your Black Candy Apples. After dipping them in the candy coating, try adding crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a creative touch to your treats.

Conclusion

The allure of Black Candy Apples lies in their perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Each bite transports you back to joyful autumn days filled with laughter and fun. I encourage you to gather your friends or family and try making these delightful treats at home. Not only will you enjoy the process, but you’ll create lasting memories together. So grab those apples, get creative, and enjoy this sweet journey into the world of candy apples!

Black Candy Apples

Indulge in the sweet and crunchy delight of Black Candy Apples. These glossy treats are perfect for fall gatherings and Halloween celebrations, making them a must-try for any sweet tooth. Create your own delicious memories with this easy recipe!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 170

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

8 – 10 pieces apples
8 – 10 pieces skewers/striped straws
2 ½ cups sugar
⅔ cup water
½ cup light corn syrup
½ tsp black paste food color
2 drops cinnamon flavor

Equipment

Large Pot
Mixing Bowl
Wooden Spoon

Method

Start by preparing your workspace. Place parchment paper onto a cookie sheet and lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will be where you place your candied apples to set.
Next, wash your apples thoroughly and let them dry completely. Ensuring they are dry helps the candy coating adhere better. Depending on their size, you can aim for about 8 to 10 apples with this recipe.
Once your apples are dry, insert a skewer or striped straw into the top of each apple. Push it in firmly enough that it can hold the weight of the apple when it's coated in candy.
Now, it’s time to make the candy coating! In a pot, combine sugar, water, and light corn syrup. Turn the heat to medium and stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to boil.
Continue cooking the mixture for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the candy thermometer reads 300 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small amount of the mixture into a cold cup of water; it should form a hard candy, separating easily.
Once the mixture reaches the right temperature, remove it from heat. Stir in the cinnamon flavoring and black paste food color until well combined.
Now comes the fun part! Dip each apple into the candy mixture, making sure to coat it quickly but evenly. Allow any excess candy to drip back into the pot.
Place the coated apples onto the prepared cookie sheet. Let them set for at least 30 minutes until the candy hardens completely.
Once set, your Black Candy Apples are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them whole or cut them into slices for a fun twist at parties.

Notes

Tip 1: Use cold, dry apples so the black candy coating sticks better and doesn’t slide off.
Tip 2: Want extra creepy flair? Try adding candy eyeballs, spider rings, or even ghostly white icing faces.
Tip 3: For parties, cut apples into slices before serving for an easy, kid-friendly option.
Tip 4: Store pierced apples in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or keep un-pierced apples at room temp for 7 days.