Red Candy Apples With Cinnamon

Name: Red Candy Apples With Cinnamon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional); Wooden sticks or skewers

Highlighted under: Sweet Table Classics

I absolutely love making Red Candy Apples with Cinnamon, especially during the fall season! The vibrant red hue and the enticing aroma of cinnamon fill my kitchen with warmth and cheer. These candy apples are not just a treat for the eyes; they bring out the nostalgic flavors of childhood fairs and autumn festivities. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, making them perfect for gatherings or a fun family activity. Trust me, you won’t be able to eat just one!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-03-05T08:25:53.627Z

Making these candy apples was a delightful experiment, especially the first time I tried adding cinnamon to the sugar mixture. It created an unexpected warmth that enhanced the sweet flavor of the candy coating. I remember watching them transform from simple apples to sparkling, candy-coated wonders right before my eyes!

For the best results, I recommend using fresh, firm apples, as they hold up beautifully under the shiny candy shell. The cinnamon elevates them to a whole new level. Plus, dipping them in the hot syrup is such a fun process that brings out the chef in anyone!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Beautifully shiny appearance that impresses everyone
Warm cinnamon flavor that complements the sweetness
A fun and interactive treat for all ages

Choosing the Right Apples

For this recipe, the type of apple you choose can greatly affect the overall flavor and texture of your candy apples. I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances out the sweetness of the candy coating. Honeycrisp apples also work wonderfully if you prefer a sweeter option. Ensure the apples are firm and fresh; soft apples may not hold up well in the candy coating and can result in a soggy texture.

It's also important to thoroughly wash the apples to remove any wax coating that could prevent the candy from adhering properly. A quick soak in a vinegar-water solution can help clean them effectively. After washing, drying the apples completely is essential, as moisture can cause the candy to seize and not stick properly.

Mastering the Candy Coating

Creating the perfect candy coating is crucial for achieving that glossy finish. When making the syrup, keep an eye on the temperature; once it reaches 300°F, it should have a hard crack consistency. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy, as this ensures the syrup can harden properly when it cools. If you find the syrup is too thick and doesn’t coat well, it may not have reached the right temperature, so check and reheat as needed.

If you opt to use red food coloring, adding it after achieving the hard crack stage is best. This way, you can ensure it mixes evenly without affecting the heating process. Once combined, the syrup should be a vibrant red and glossy, giving your candy apples that classic carnival look. Make sure to work quickly when dipping, as the syrup begins to harden as it cools.

Storing and Serving Your Candy Apples

Once your candy apples are set and glossy, you may want to consider how to store them. Ideally, they should be kept at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid refrigeration, as this can lead to moisture buildup, causing the candy to lose its crunch. If you need to stack them, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Properly stored, they can last up to a week—though I doubt they'll last that long!

For serving, these candy apples are great on their own, but you can get creative. Consider rolling them in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even shredded coconut while the coating is still warm for an added texture and flavor. For a gourmet twist, you could drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled candy coating. These variations can elevate your treat and make them memorable for any gathering.

Ingredients

For Red Candy Apples

6 medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
Wooden sticks or skewers

Note

Ensure that the apples are thoroughly washed and dried for the candy coating to adhere properly.

Steps to Make Red Candy Apples

Prepare the Apples

Wash the apples well and dry them completely. Remove the stems and insert wooden sticks into the top of each apple.

Make the Candy Coating

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, corn syrup, and cinnamon. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat to high without stirring and let it boil until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). If using, add red food coloring and mix well.

Dip the Apples

Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a minute. Dip each apple into the hot syrup, swirling to coat fully. Allow excess syrup to drip off.

Let Them Cool

Place the coated apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them sit at room temperature until the candy hardens.

Enjoy Your Treats!

Once cooled, these candy apples can be enjoyed immediately or wrapped for later. They make a great treat for parties!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try adding a dash of nutmeg or allspice to the candy mixture! Also, working quickly when dipping helps achieve a smoother coating.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your syrup crystallizes, it may be due to stirring the mixture after the sugar dissolves. Once it begins to boil, avoid stirring—just let the heat do its work. If you notice some sugar crystals forming around the edges of the pan, you can wash them down with a wet pastry brush to prevent interference with the smooth finish of your candy coating.

In cases where the coating doesn’t harden properly, double-check the temperature. If it’s below 300°F, it won’t reach that perfect hard crack stage. If that happens, you can transfer the mixture back to the heat and bring it up to the correct temperature, but do so cautiously to avoid burning.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easy to scale up or down, so feel free to adjust the quantities as needed. For a larger batch, simply double or triple the ingredients proportionally. Just ensure you have enough space for dipping and cooling multiple apples, as they need enough room to avoid touch when setting.

If you find yourself with extra candy coating, consider using it to make candy corn or to coat pretzels. The syrup can be poured onto a parchment-lined sheet for cooling; once set, it can be broken into shards for additional treats, minimizing waste while maximizing deliciousness!

Fun Variations to Try

While cinnamon is a delightful addition in this candy apple recipe, consider experimenting with other spices as well. Nutmeg, allspice, or even a pinch of cayenne can create a unique take on the classic flavor. For a more seasonal vibe, try adding a splash of pumpkin spice to the syrup for an autumn twist.

If you're looking to adapt this recipe for different occasions, you could make mini candy apples using small apples or cut larger apples into wedges and coat them individually. This makes them easier to eat as finger foods at parties, and allowing everyone to enjoy a bite without feeling overwhelmed by size!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, pears and bananas can also work, but apples are the classic choice.

→ How long do these candy apples last?

They can last up to a week if stored in a cool, dry place.

→ Is it necessary to use corn syrup?

Corn syrup helps to prevent the sugar from crystallizing, but you can try using honey as an alternative.

→ Can I make these without food coloring?

Absolutely, the candy apples will still taste delicious without coloring!