Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples

Name: Homemade Cinnamon Candy Apples
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Fuji); 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional); Wooden sticks or skewers

Highlighted under: Party Seasonal Food Inspiration

I’ve always been enchanted by the vibrant red of candy apples at fairs. Making them at home seemed daunting, but I quickly discovered it’s actually quite simple! The smell of cinnamon wafting through my kitchen as the sugary syrup cooks creates an irresistible atmosphere. It’s the perfect treat for gatherings or just a sweet indulgence. With a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create dazzling candy apples that taste as good as they look. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together!

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:13:35.249Z

When I first attempted making homemade cinnamon candy apples, I was amazed by how quickly they came together. The beauty of using fresh apples means the added crunch really complements the glossy cinnamon syrup. I found that using a candy thermometer was essential to reach the perfect hard-crack stage, which allows that satisfying snap when you bite into the candy coating.

One of my favorite tips is to add a touch of vanilla extract to the syrup just before dipping the apples. It elevates the flavor and gives the candies a hint of warmth that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon. Every time I make these, they vanish within minutes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet and spicy cinnamon flavor
Beautiful, glossy finish that makes for stunning presentation
Perfect for fall festivities and holiday gatherings

Choosing the Right Apples

Selecting the right type of apple is crucial to the success of your homemade candy apples. I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or Fuji. Their firm texture holds up well when dipped in hot syrup, and the tartness beautifully complements the sweet candy coating. Avoid soft varieties, as they may become mushy and lose their shape during the cooling process.

Before dipping, make sure to wash the apples thoroughly to remove any waxy coating, which can hinder the syrup from adhering properly. I also suggest drying them completely with a towel after washing to ensure a smooth and glossy finish.

Achieving the Perfect Candy Coating

The candy coating is where the magic happens! Cooking the syrup to the hard crack stage at 300°F is essential for achieving that perfect crisp exterior. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy and ensure it’s placed away from the bottom of the pan; otherwise, the reading can be off. Keeping a constant check as it approaches this temperature helps prevent burning.

Once the syrup is ready, act quickly. Each apple should be dipped for just a moment to let the excess syrup drip off, creating an even layer. If you see the syrup thickening too much before you've dipped all your apples, simply return it to low heat briefly to loosen it again, but don’t let it drop below 300°F.

Storing and Serving Your Candy Apples

Once your candy apples are fully cooled, store them in a cool, dry place. If you're looking to keep them fresh longer, avoid stacking them to prevent the candy coating from sticking together. Placing them in individual cupcake liners or setting them upright in a glass or jar can help retain their shape and polish.

Candy apples can also be customized for different occasions. Consider rolling them in crushed nuts or sprinkles right after dipping for a festive touch. For an added layer of flavor, try infusing the syrup with vanilla or even a hint of citrus zest. Whatever your twist may be, enjoy your creation with friends and family, knowing it’s truly made from scratch!

Ingredients

For the Candy Apples

6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Fuji)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
Wooden sticks or skewers

Note

Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavors!

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

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

Make the Candy Coating

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, corn syrup, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Bring to a Boil

Increase heat and let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). If using, add red food coloring at this stage.

Dip the Apples

Carefully dip each apple into the hot syrup, turning to coat fully. Set on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool.

Cool and Serve

Allow the candy to harden for about 30 minutes. Once set, serve and enjoy your delightful cinnamon candy apples!

Serving Suggestion

Serve these apples as a fun treat at parties, or wrap them as gifts!

Pro Tips

Be cautious when working with hot sugar syrup, as it can cause serious burns. Always use a candy thermometer for the best results.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your candy coating doesn’t set properly, it may be due to not reaching the right temperature. Ensure to use a candy thermometer and monitor closely as your syrup approaches the hard crack stage. If you miss the target, reheat the candy slightly and bring it back to temperature before trying again.

Another common issue is the syrup crystallizing. This can happen if sugar crystals form on the sides of the pan. To prevent this, you can brush the sides of the saucepan with a wet pastry brush during cooking to wash away any sugar crystals. A pinch of cream of tartar can also help keep the syrup smooth and free-flowing.

Flavor Variations to Try

While cinnamon adds a delightful warmth to your candy apples, don’t hesitate to explore other flavors! You can substitute the ground cinnamon with spices like nutmeg or even pumpkin spice for an autumnal twist. Experimenting with flavor extracts, such as almond or maple, can offer a unique flair to your candy apples as well.

For chocolate lovers, consider dipping your cooled candy apples in melted chocolate after the syrup has set, then rolling them in toppings like crushed cookies or toffee bits. This adds both texture and rich flavor, creating a new spin on the classic recipe that's sure to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite varieties. Sweet apples like Fuji or tart ones like Granny Smith both work well.

→ How do I store leftover candy apples?

Store any leftover candy apples in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration to prevent sweating.

→ What happens if the syrup doesn't harden?

If the syrup doesn’t reach 300°F, it won’t harden properly. Use a candy thermometer to ensure accurate results.

→ Can I add flavors to the candy coating?

Yes, adding extracts like vanilla or almond right before dipping can enhance the flavor of your candy apples!