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Easy Homemade Candy Apple Recipe

Crisp apples coated in a smooth, golden caramel, the perfect sweet treat to celebrate fall with a comforting and nostalgic touch.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 apples
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 160
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 medium crisp apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
  • 6 wooden sticks
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Chopped nuts chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or sprinkles (optional)

Method
 

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the apples, remove stems, and insert wooden sticks.
  2. Chill the apples in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help the caramel adhere.
  3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and prepare the toppings.
  4. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, cream, and salt.
  5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and thickened, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and let the caramel cool slightly.
  7. Dip each apple into the warm caramel, turning to coat evenly.
  8. Allow excess caramel to drip off, then immediately roll in desired toppings.
  9. Place apples on the prepared baking sheet and let set at room temperature for 20 minutes.

Notes

Make sure the apples are completely dry so the caramel sticks properly. Using a candy thermometer helps achieve the perfect caramel consistency.