Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples

Name: Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 medium-sized apples; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 3/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional); Wooden sticks or skewers for dipping

Highlighted under: Clean Cooking

I absolutely love making homemade cinnamon candy apples! The combination of crisp apples coated in a sweet and spicy cinnamon glaze is simply irresistible. Each time I prepare these treats, the warm aroma fills my kitchen, instantly making my mouth water. These apples are perfect for any occasion, from fall festivals to family gatherings. Not only are they fun to make, but they're also a delicious way to enjoy the seasonal harvest. Trust me, once you try them, you'll never want to go back to store-bought versions.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:39:34.834Z

Creating homemade cinnamon candy apples has become one of my favorite autumn traditions. I remember the first time I made them; the simple act of dipping freshly washed apples into the bubbling candy mixture was nothing short of magical. The bright red coating always brings back memories of visiting local fairs where vendors sell them. I carefully experimented with the cinnamon flavor, and now it's the perfect balance of sweet and just the right amount of spice.

One trick I've learned is to ensure the apples are completely dry before dipping them. Any moisture can prevent the candy from adhering properly. Also, using a candy thermometer to reach the right temperature ensures that the candy hardens perfectly when cooled. It’s these little details that make all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Irresistibly sweet and spiced cinnamon flavor
Crunchy apples balanced with a chewy candy coating
Great for festive occasions or as a creative treat

Tips for Choosing the Right Apples

When selecting apples for your cinnamon candy apples, opt for firm varieties such as Granny Smith or Fuji. These apples have a crisp texture that holds up well against the candy coating. Avoid soft or mealy apples, as they may break apart during dipping, resulting in a less satisfying bite. Look for apples that are smooth and vibrant in color, indicating freshness and ripeness.

If you want to enhance the flavor, consider using varieties with a natural sweetness, like Honeycrisp. Their balanced tartness combined with the cinnamon glaze makes for a delectable treat. To prevent browning, you can also soak the apples in a mixture of water and lemon juice before coating, although drying them well after is essential to ensure the candy sticks.

Mastering the Candy Coating

Achieving the perfect candy coating requires careful attention to the temperature. This recipe calls for a hard crack stage at 300°F. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy, as this ensures the sugar reaches the right consistency. If the temperature falls short, your candy may remain sticky and fail to harden properly. On the other hand, cooking it too long can cause it to become too brittle and shatter upon biting.

During the boiling process, refrain from stirring once the sugar dissolves. Stirring at this stage can introduce air bubbles, leading to a grainy texture in your candy coating. Instead, gently swirl the saucepan if necessary to keep the sugar mixture moving. Once you remove it from heat, work quickly to dip the apples before the coating starts to cool and thicken.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your cinnamon candy apples are set, store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture. If you live in a humid area, consider wrapping each apple in wax paper to prevent moisture from affecting the candy coating. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, but for best results, consume them within the first 48 hours to ensure freshness.

For serving, elevate your presentation by placing the apples on a platter with seasonal accents like cinnamon sticks or fall leaves. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the finished apples for an added layer of flavor and a gourmet touch. Guests often enjoy them as an interactive dessert, so consider providing a small knife for easy slicing!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your delicious cinnamon candy apples!

Ingredients

8 medium-sized apples
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
3/4 cup water
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
Wooden sticks or skewers for dipping

Make sure to wash the apples thoroughly to remove any wax before starting. Enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results!

Prepare the Apples

Begin by washing the apples under cold water and drying them thoroughly. Insert a wooden stick into the stem side of each apple.

Make the Candy Coating

In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Don’t stir the mixture after boiling starts; just let it cook until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).

Add Flavor and Color

Once the syrup reaches the correct temperature, remove it from heat. Carefully stir in ground cinnamon and red food coloring if using.

Dip the Apples

Quickly dip each apple into the syrup, turning to coat evenly. Allow the excess to drip off and place the coated apples on parchment paper to set.

Let the apples cool completely before serving to ensure the candy coating hardens properly.

Pro Tips

For added variation, experiment by rolling the dipped apples in crushed nuts before the candy hardens, or try using different flavored extracts for a unique twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your candy coating doesn’t harden, it may not have reached the correct temperature. Double-check your thermometer’s accuracy, and if needed, reheat the sugar mixture until it firms up upon cooling. If the apples are too sticky after dipping, try reducing the heat during the final steps or ensure the apples are fully dry before coating.

Sometimes, the candy may crystallize, leading to a gritty texture. This can happen if there’s a grain of sugar or if it was stirred too much. To prevent this, ensure all utensils are clean, and consider adding a drop of vinegar during the cooking process, which can help inhibit crystallization.

Flavor Variations to Try

While the classic cinnamon candy apple is delicious, feel free to experiment with flavors. Consider adding a dash of nutmeg or ginger to the candy coating for a spiced twist. You can also substitute some granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor profile, which pairs beautifully with the apples' natural sweetness.

For a bit of fun, try dipping the apples in crushed nuts or sprinkles after coating them with candy. Chopped pecans, walnuts, or crushed candy canes can add a delightful crunch and visual appeal. Make sure to sprinkle these toppings on while the coating is still warm to ensure they adhere properly.

Make-Ahead Options

If you want to prepare in advance, consider pre-washing and drying your apples a day before making the candy coating. However, for the best results, wait to coat them until the day you plan to serve. Pre-made candy coating can also be stored for a short time – just reheat gently until it liquefies again, being cautious not to overheat.

If you're planning a larger event, you can scale up the recipe. Just ensure that you have a large enough pot for boiling the sugar and enough space to let the coated apples set. Making a big batch allows you to enjoy these delightful treats without the rush on the day of your gathering!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of apple?

Yes, but firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best as they hold up well to the candy coating.

→ How do I store leftover candy apples?

Store them in a cool, dry place in a single layer to avoid the coating sticking together.

→ Can I make the candy coating ahead of time?

It's best to make the coating fresh when you are ready to dip the apples for the best texture.

→ What if my candy coating is too thick?

If your candy mixture starts to thicken too much, you can carefully reheat it on low heat while stirring to loosen it up.