By leah jones
Check out this recipe for some classic, sweet and crunchy candy apples.
8 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well) 8 wooden sticks 2 cups granulated sugar 1/2 cup light corn syrup
3/4 cup water 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) Cooking spray or parchment paperr
Wash the apples thoroughly to remove any wax coating and dry them completely. Wax can prevent the candy from sticking.
Insert the wooden sticks into the top of each apple, pushing them firmly into the core.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with non-stick cooking spray. Set it aside for later.
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup and water. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Continue boiling the mixture until it reaches 300°F (150°C), the "hard crack" stage. This will take about 15-20 minutes.
Tip: If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the candy by dropping a little into cold water. If it hardens immediately into brittle strands, it’s ready.
Once it reaches 300°F, remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the red food coloring and vanilla extract.
Working quickly, dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, tilting the pan as necessary to completely coat the apple.
Allow the candy apples to cool and harden at room temperature (about 10-15 minutes). They're best enjoyed the same day, but can be stored in an airtight container for longer.
Before the candy coating hardens, you can dip the apples in sprinkles, crushed nuts or other toppings for extra texture and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious candy apples.