Mini Candy Apples Sticks (Printable View)

Bite-sized apples coated in a glossy, crunchy candy shell for delightful snacking.

# Ingredient List:

→ Apples

01 - 8 small apples such as Gala or Fuji, or 16 crabapples

→ Candy Coating

02 - 2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 0.5 cup light corn syrup
04 - 0.5 cup water
05 - 0.5 teaspoon red gel food coloring

→ Assembly

06 - 16 wooden sticks, lollipop or popsicle
07 - Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper

# How to Make:

01 - Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. If using large apples, cut each in half and scoop out the seeds with a small melon baller. Insert a wooden stick firmly into the stem end of each apple or apple half.
02 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease, or spray a silicone mat with nonstick spray.
03 - In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
04 - Increase heat to high, bring the mixture to a boil without stirring, and cook until it reaches 290 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer at the hard crack stage, approximately 8 to 10 minutes.
05 - Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the red food coloring until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
06 - Working quickly, dip each apple into the hot candy coating, swirling to coat evenly. Let the excess drip off, then place the apple on the prepared baking sheet.
07 - Let the candy apples cool completely at room temperature until the coating hardens, approximately 10 minutes.
08 - Serve and enjoy the finished candy apples.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Perfect party treat that's both adorable and delicious
  • Simple ingredients you probably already have
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Kid-friendly and fun to customize with different colors and toppings
  • Naturally nut-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free
  • Creates 16 mini apples—ideal for sharing at gatherings
02 -
  • Always use a candy thermometer for accuracy—guessing the temperature can result in coating that's too soft or burnt
  • Dry apples completely after washing to ensure the candy coating sticks properly
  • Work quickly when dipping, as the candy syrup sets fast
  • Tilt the pan if needed to get enough depth for dipping smaller apples
  • Never refrigerate candy apples—the moisture makes the coating sticky
  • Use gel food coloring rather than liquid for more vibrant, consistent color
  • Insert sticks firmly and let apples sit for a few minutes before dipping to ensure they're secure
Return