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.
