Red Candy Apples With Cinnamon

Name: Red Candy Apples With Cinnamon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Gala); 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup corn syrup; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional); Wooden sticks or skewers

Highlighted under: Golden Bakes

I absolutely love making Red Candy Apples with Cinnamon, as they remind me of crisp fall days and carnival treats. The bright red sweetness perfectly balances the warmth from the cinnamon, creating a nostalgic flavor that's hard to resist. In just under 30 minutes, I can prepare these delightful treats that not only look stunning but also offer a satisfying crunch. Whether for a festive gathering or a fun snack for my family, these apples are sure to impress everyone with their vibrant appearance and delicious glaze.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-02-16T11:33:37.827Z

When I first tried making candy apples, I was surprised at how simple it was to achieve that glossy, sweet coating. By combining sugar, water, and some corn syrup, I discovered the perfect syrup consistency that clings beautifully to the apples without being too sticky. I love adding cinnamon, as it elevates the flavor and adds an aromatic touch that feels so comforting.

Each time I dip the apples, I savor the moment and remember the excitement of fairs. This time, I added a sprinkle of cinnamon immediately after dipping, and it truly transformed the flavor profile. I encourage you to try this small tweak for a delightful surprise!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and crunchy apples with a luscious candy coating
Warm cinnamon adds an inviting twist to the classic treat
Perfect for parties, autumn celebrations, or just a fun baking day

Choosing the Right Apples

The choice of apple is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of sweet and tart. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice due to their tartness that cuts through the sugary coating, while Gala apples offer a sweeter profile that complements the candy glaze. Look for firm, unblemished apples for the best results. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with Fuji or Honeycrisp apples to add your unique touch.

Before you start, it’s important to remove any wax from the apples that may hinder adhesion. Simply rinse them under warm water and scrub lightly with a sponge or use a mixture of vinegar and water for a deeper clean. This step will ensure that your candy coating sticks perfectly and adds to the overall visual appeal.

Mastering the Candy Coating

Achieving the right consistency for the candy coating can be a bit tricky but is essential for that glossy finish. When boiling the mixture, keep an eye on the temperature; it should reach exactly 300°F. Too low, and it won’t harden properly; too high, and it may burn. I find that a good candy thermometer is invaluable here, ensuring precision and success every time.

Once your mixture has reached the correct temperature, remove it from the heat immediately to prevent it from cooking further. Stirring in the cinnamon and food coloring off the heat allows you to control the thickness and flavor without any risk of scorching. The mixture should be shiny and flow smoothly, ready to create that eye-catching candy apple glaze.

Storing and Serving Your Candy Apples

After your candy apples are fully cooled, they can be stored at room temperature for extra crunch. Ideally, place each apple in a small cupcake liner to prevent them from sticking together or touching. If you're planning to enjoy them later, keep in mind that humid conditions can cause the candy to become sticky, so it’s best to store them in a cool, dry place.

For gatherings, consider serving your candy apples on a decorative platter for an appealing presentation. You can also sprinkle crushed nuts or add edible glitter to the coating while it's still wet for extra flair. If you want to mix it up, try adding flavored extracts like vanilla or almond to the syrup for a fun twist. Your candy apples will not only taste delicious but will also impress your guests with their beautiful display!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your red candy apples:

For the Candy Apples

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

Make sure to wash the apples thoroughly and dry them for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect candy coating:

Prepare the Apples

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

Make the Candy Coating

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.

Add Color and Flavor

Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the cinnamon and red food coloring if using.

Coat the Apples

Quickly dip each apple into the hot syrup, turning to coat completely. Allow excess syrup to drip off before placing them on parchment paper to cool.

Cool and Serve

Let the candy apples cool completely at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!

For the best texture, allow the candy coating to set for at least 30 minutes before eating.

Pro Tips

To prevent the candy from crystallizing, ensure no sugar crystals are on the sides of the saucepan while cooking. You can dip your brush in water to clean the sides if necessary while the sugar mixture cooks.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

While the traditional red candy apple is delightful, consider adding a touch of creativity to your treats. You could make caramel apples by substituting the candy coating for a rich caramel sauce. To do this, melt chewy caramels with a splash of heavy cream until smooth, then apply it to your cleaned apples. This offers a gooey alternative that many find irresistible.

For a spicier kick, try adding some cayenne pepper or ginger to your cinnamon mixture. This subtle heat can create a unique flavor profile that will surprise and delight. Additionally, you could experiment with different food colorings or sprinkles to match seasonal themes—think orange for Halloween or green for St. Patrick’s Day!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with candy apples is that the coating doesn't harden properly. If this happens, it might indicate that the syrup didn't reach the candy stage. In such cases, you can remelt the apples in a clean saucepan to prepare and coat them again once the syrup reaches 300°F. Another cause could be excessive humidity, which affects the candy's crispness once cooled.

If you find your candy apples are too sticky, ensure that you're storing them properly. Wrapping the apples too tightly can trap moisture. If you're serving them at a party, consider setting them out on a cooling rack instead of a plate to maintain their crisp coating. Keeping them elevated can help reduce humidity exposure and preserve that perfect snap!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, any firm apple like Fuji or Honeycrisp will work beautifully.

→ How long do these candy apples last?

They are best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 2 days in a cool, dry place.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

While you can prepare the apples in advance, it's best to coat them the day you want to serve for optimal texture.

→ Is it safe to eat the candy coating?

Yes, the candy coating is safe as it is cooked to a high temperature; however, be cautious of the hot syrup.