As the leaves begin to change and the crisp autumn air fills with the sweet scent of cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s time to start thinking about festive treats that are sure to delight at your next harvest-themed gathering or Halloween party. And what better treat to get into the spirit than a classic candy apple? These crunchy, chewy, and colorful confections are a staple of fall festivities, and can be easily customized with a variety of flavors and toppings to suit any taste.
From classic red apples to creative concoctions like caramel apple slices with nuts or peanut butter covered candy apples, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. So why not get started on planning your fall festivities with these mouthwatering candy apple ideas? In this article, we’ll explore the full range of possibilities and share our favorite recipes for making the most of this beloved autumn treat.
Classic Red Candy Apples
Classic Red Candy Apples Recipe
A sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for any occasion! These classic red candy apples are a nostalgic favorite that’s easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 apples (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– Red food coloring
– Wooden sticks or skewers for dipping
Instructions:
1. Insert a wooden stick or skewer into each apple.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Add red food coloring and stir until the color is evenly distributed.
6. Dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, coating completely.
7. Place dipped apples onto a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat to set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: Be careful when handling hot sugar syrup and melted candy.
Caramel Apple Slices with Nuts
Sweet and crunchy caramel apple slices with a satisfying crunch from toasted nuts – a perfect autumn treat!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 apples, sliced into thin wedges
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, water, and butter. Place over medium heat and cook until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Dip each apple slice into the caramel mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place coated apple slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Sprinkle chopped nuts over the apples.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until caramel is golden and nuts are toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Covered Candy Apples
Get ready to elevate your snacking game with these deliciously easy-to-make chocolate-covered candy apples!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of red candy apples (about 4-6 pieces)
– 1 cup of white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup of milk chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon of shortening (optional)
– Sprinkles or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Dip each candy apple into the melted white chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the apple.
3. Place the coated apple on a parchment-lined surface and repeat the process with the milk chocolate chips.
4. If desired, sprinkle with chopped nuts or sprinkles immediately after dipping in milk chocolate.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow chocolate to set.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is all about assembly and setting time.
Green Apple Candy Apples with Sprinkles
Transform ordinary apples into a sweet treat perfect for parties or Halloween festivities! This easy recipe combines the crunch of candy coating with the tartness of green apples, topped with colorful sprinkles.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Granny Smith apples
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon red food coloring
– Green and yellow sprinkles for topping
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples thoroughly.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in red food coloring until the mixture turns green.
5. Dip each apple into the candy coating, allowing excess to drip off.
6. Roll the coated apples in sprinkles immediately to adhere.
7. Let the candies set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peanut Butter Candy Apples
Transform ordinary apples into a sweet and indulgent treat with this simple recipe. Crunchy peanut butter candies wrapped around juicy apples make for a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety, but firmer apples like Granny Smith work best)
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples thoroughly.
2. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, honey, and salt until smooth.
3. Dip each apple into the peanut butter mixture, coating about 2/3 of the apple.
4. Roll the coated apple in chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips to coat evenly.
5. Place the peanut butter-covered apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the candies to set.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required, as this recipe involves no cooking.
White Chocolate Candy Apples
Transform crisp apples into sweet and tangy treats with this easy recipe. The combination of crunchy apple, gooey white chocolate, and crispy candy coating is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Granny Smith or Fuji apples
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) crushed candy canes or chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon shortening (optional)
– Wooden sticks for dipping
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples thoroughly.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Dip each apple into the melted white chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
4. Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes or chopped pecans onto the wet white chocolate.
5. Place the coated apples on parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. If desired, add a dollop of shortening to the top of each apple to create a smooth finish.
Cooking Time: None (chilling time: 30 minutes)
Salted Caramel Candy Apples
Salted Caramel Candy Apples Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and salty treat! Crunchy apples coated in a rich, buttery caramel mixture, sprinkled with flaky sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Granny Smith apples
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt until melted and smooth.
5. Dip each apple into the caramel mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
6. Place coated apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until caramel is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Candy Apple Pie Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the flavors of apple pie with a sweet and crunchy candy coating, perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated crescent rolls
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup apple butter or applesauce
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Candy coating of your choice (white, milk, or dark chocolate)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the crescent rolls and separate into triangles.
3. Mix together granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle mixture evenly over each triangle.
4. Spread apple butter or applesauce on one half of each triangle, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Fold the other half of the triangle over the filling to form a triangle shape.
6. Place triangles on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool completely before coating with candy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Glazed Candy Apples
Elevate a classic fairground treat with this simple recipe for Maple Glazed Candy Apples. A sweet and sticky glaze made with pure Canadian maple syrup adds a depth of flavor to the crunchy apples.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Granny Smith apples
– 1 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon water
– Wooden sticks or skewers for dipping
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples thoroughly.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the maple syrup, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the glaze reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the water.
5. Dip each apple into the hot glaze, using the wooden stick or skewer to coat the apple evenly.
6. Place the glazed apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the glaze.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Toffee Crunch Candy Apples
Transform crisp apples into sweet and crunchy treats with this easy recipe! With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious snack perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Granny Smith apples
– 1 cup toffee bits (such as Heath toffee)
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Stir in the toffee bits, corn syrup, and vanilla extract.
4. Dip each apple into the melted mixture, coating about 3/4 of the apple.
5. Place the coated apples on parchment paper or a silicone mat.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the candy.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including melting and setting time)
Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples
Transform ordinary apples into a sweet and crunchy treat with this simple recipe. Perfect for parties, snacks, or just because!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon water
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for added decoration
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples thoroughly.
2. Insert wooden sticks into each apple, leaving a small portion exposed at the top.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together sugar and cinnamon.
4. Dip each apple into the sugar mixture, coating evenly, then place on a plate or tray.
5. Repeat the dipping process 1-2 times to achieve desired coverage.
6. Allow the apples to sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the sugar to set.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just dip and enjoy!
Rocky Road Candy Apples
Transform ordinary apples into a sweet treat by dipping them in melted chocolate and adding crushed nuts, caramel, and marshmallows. This easy recipe is perfect for a fun dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (Granny Smith or Fuji work well)
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– Wooden sticks for dipping
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples. Remove any stems or leaves.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Dip each apple into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
4. Immediately sprinkle chopped nuts onto the chocolate before it hardens.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the nuts and marshmallows (if using).
6. Place the coated apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
Cooking Time: None! These treats are ready in just a few minutes of assembly. Enjoy!
Strawberry Swirl Candy Apples
Elevate your snacking game with this sweet and tangy treat, perfect for parties or a fun dessert. This recipe combines the classic candy apple with the sweetness of strawberries and the crunch of granola.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (Granny Smith work well)
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup strawberry jam
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh strawberries
– 1/4 cup granola
– Wooden sticks for dipping
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Dip each apple into the melted white chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the apple.
4. Drizzle strawberry jam over the apple, creating a swirl pattern.
5. Sprinkle chopped strawberries and granola over the jam.
6. Place the dipped apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None
Pumpkin Spice Candy Apples
Pumpkin Spice Candy Apples: A sweet and tangy twist on a classic treat!
Ingredients:
– 10-12 apples (any variety, but firmer apples like Granny Smith work best)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Wash the apples thoroughly and dry them with a clean towel.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and food coloring (if using).
5. Dip each apple into the candy mixture, coating about 2/3 of the fruit.
6. Place coated apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet or silicone mat.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the candy.
8. Serve chilled, or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peppermint Candy Apples
Transform ordinary apples into a sweet and festive treat with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety, but firmer apples work best)
– 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (such as M&M’s or Peppermint M&M’s)
– 1 tablespoon water
– Optional: red and green sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples thoroughly.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the crushed peppermint candies and water until well combined.
3. Dip each apple into the candy mixture, coating about half of the apple’s surface.
4. Place the coated apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the candy.
6. Just before serving, garnish with red and green sprinkles if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is no-bake, perfect for a quick and easy treat or party favor.
Apple Cider Candy Apples
Transform ordinary apples into a sweet and tangy treat by dipping them in a crunchy apple cider candy coating. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a fun snack for kids.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 10-12 apples, cored and stems removed
– Red candy coating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and apple cider in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the caramel reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Dip each apple into the warm caramel mixture, coating about 3/4 of the apple. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Let set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the caramel to harden.
6. If desired, drizzle with red candy coating and let set before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Dark Chocolate Espresso Candy Apples
Transform crisp apples into decadent treats by coating them in a rich dark chocolate and espresso mixture.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Granny Smith apples, cored
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange apples on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each apple.
4. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt dark chocolate chips and butter, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat; whisk in espresso powder until smooth.
6. Dip each apple into the chocolate mixture, coating evenly.
7. Place coated apples back on the baking sheet.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set chocolate.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (optional) and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cookie Dough Candy Apples
Get ready to take your snack game to the next level with these irresistible Cookie Dough Candy Apples! Crunchy apples coated in a sweet and gooey cookie dough mixture, perfect for parties or as a fun dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 dozen Granny Smith apples
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup crushed cookie crumbs (e.g., Oreos or Chips Ahoy)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the apples.
2. In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Dip each apple into the mixture, coating about 3/4 of the apple.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Drizzle melted chocolate over the apples.
6. Sprinkle crushed cookie crumbs on top of the chocolate.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and serve within a few hours of making.
Rainbow Sprinkled Candy Apples
Add a pop of color and fun to your snack time with these easy-to-make Rainbow Sprinkled Candy Apples. A classic treat gets a playful twist with the addition of vibrant sprinkles.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (any variety, but firmer apples work best)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– Food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple)
– Rainbow sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Insert wooden sticks into the top of each apple.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Add a few drops of food coloring to each color section (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple).
6. Dip each apple into the colored sugar mixture, coating evenly.
7. Immediately sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles before the candy sets.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Bourbon Caramel Candy Apples
Experience the classic combination of crispy apples, gooey caramel, and a hint of bourbon in this indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 Granny Smith apples
• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1/4 cup (60ml) bourbon whiskey
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• Sea salt, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Wash and dry the apples.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and bourbon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the caramel reaches 248°F (120°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until melted.
5. Dip each apple into the hot caramel mixture, coating about half of the apple.
6. Place coated apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the caramel.
7. Just before serving, sprinkle with sea salt.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of fall with these 20 delicious candy apple recipes! From classic red candy apples to creative twists like salted caramel, peanut butter, and pumpkin spice, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make caramel apple slices with nuts, chocolate-covered treats, and even candy apple pie bites. These recipes are perfect for fall festivities, parties, or just a sweet treat any time of the year.
