Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples

Name: Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 medium apples (Granny Smith or Fuji); 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1 tablespoon light corn syrup; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional); Wooden sticks or skewers for dipping; Cooking spray (for greasing)

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

When I first made Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples, I was instantly transported back to my childhood. The sweet aroma of cinnamon sugar wafting through the house was irresistible! I love how this recipe combines crisp apples with a shiny, red candy coating that’s both beautiful and delicious. It’s a perfect treat for fall festivals or a sweet surprise for my friends. Plus, making these candy apples at home lets me control the sweetness and enjoy them right after they are made.

Created by

Primrose Cavendish

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:27:34.746Z

Creating these cinnamon candy apples was an adventure! The moment I dipped the apples into the molten candy, I was mesmerized by the transformation. I discovered that the key to a glossy finish is to ensure the apples are thoroughly dried after washing. This prevents the candy from slipping off. I experimented with different apple varieties and found that tart apples like Granny Smith provide the perfect contrast to the sweet, sticky candy.

Each time I made these candy apples, I enjoyed getting creative with the toppings. While the classic cinnamon sugar blend is fantastic, trying crushed nuts or sprinkles elevated the presentation. I highly recommend preparing a few extra apples, as they disappear quickly once shared with friends and family!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors
A beautiful, glossy finish that impresses on any occasion
Customizable toppings for every preference

      

Choosing the Right Apples

The choice of apples is crucial for the success of your Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples. I recommend using Granny Smith or Fuji apples because their tartness beautifully contrasts with the sweet candy coating. Their firm texture ensures that they hold up well during the dipping process, but other crisp varieties like Honeycrisp can also work well. Make sure to select apples that are free from blemishes and firm to the touch for optimal results.

Before you start the candy-making process, give your apples a good wash and dry them thoroughly. This step is essential as any moisture left on the surface can affect the candy coating, causing it to slide off or become sticky. Plus, the shiny, candy-coated finish looks best on clean, dry apples.

Mastering the Candy Coating

Achieving the perfect candy coating takes practice, especially when it comes to knowing the right temperature. Once your candy mixture hits 300°F, it will reach the hard crack stage, providing that nice, crispy outer shell we all love. Use a candy thermometer for precise readings, and don't rush this step. If the syrup exceeds this temperature, it can become too hard and unworkable, making it difficult to coat the apples smoothly.

When dipping the apples, work swiftly! The candy begins to cool down as soon as it’s off the heat, which can lead to a thicker coating or even the mixture solidifying in your pot. A visual cue is key here: you want the candy to be glossy and flowing. Rotate the apple as you dip it, and allow any excess to drip back into the saucepan before placing it on your prepared surface.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

8 medium apples (Granny Smith or Fuji)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
1 tablespoon light corn syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
Wooden sticks or skewers for dipping
Cooking spray (for greasing)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start this delicious endeavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own cinnamon candy apples:

Prepare the Apples

Wash the apples thoroughly and dry them completely. Insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple, pushing it about halfway down.

Make the Candy Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, water, corn syrup, and cinnamon. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then increase the heat and let it boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).

Add Color

Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, carefully add in the food coloring, stirring gently to combine.

Dip the Apples

Working quickly, dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Allow any excess candy to drip off.

Cool and Serve

Place the coated apples on a greased baking sheet or parchment paper. Let them cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your homemade candy apples as a sweet treat or festive decoration!

Pro Tips

Make sure to keep the candy mixture hot while dipping the apples to ensure a smooth coating. If it cools too much, it won’t stick well.

Storage Tips

Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples are best enjoyed fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers, store them in a cool, dry place. I recommend keeping them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration, as this can cause the candy coating to become sticky and lose its desirable texture. If stored correctly, they should last a couple of days, though the candy may begin to soften over time.

For prolonged freshness, you can also consider wrapping each candy apple in plastic wrap. This extra layer helps protect the candy coating from moisture and air, allowing for a slightly longer shelf life. Just be cautious about how tightly you wrap them to avoid disturbing the glossy finish.

Variations and Toppings

Once you've mastered the basic Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples, feel free to explore variations. For instance, you can incorporate flavored extracts like vanilla or pumpkin spice to the candy mixture for a unique twist. Adding spices allows you to customize the flavor profile to match your autumn mood, making it a wonderful seasonal treat.

Toppings can also take your candy apples to the next level. After dipping in the candy, consider rolling them in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for added texture and visual appeal. Chocolate drizzles can also enhance the sweetness and provide a gourmet touch. Tailoring these treats with your favorite toppings will keep the experience exciting and personalized!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Yes, you can try this candy coating with pears or even strawberries, but ensure they're firm fruits.

→ How can I store leftover candy apples?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid refrigerating, as it can result in a sticky coating.

→ What can I do if the candy doesn't harden?

Make sure your mixture reaches 300°F. If it doesn't, it may stay soft. Reheat it again until it reaches the correct temperature.

→ Can I skip the food coloring?

Absolutely! The food coloring is optional. The cinnamon coating will still taste delicious without it.