Easy Candy Apple Recipe Without Corn Syrup
Are you craving something sweet and crunchy? Look no further than homemade candy apples! This classic fall treat is perfect for Halloween parties, autumn gatherings, or even just a fun family project. However, many traditional candy apple recipes rely on corn syrup, which can be unhealthy and difficult to find in some areas. Fortunately, there’s an easy and tasty alternative. In this article, we’ll show you how to make candy apples without corn syrup. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious and healthy treat!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 6 medium-sized apples
- 1 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup substitute (such as honey or agave nectar)
- 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
- 6 wooden sticks or skewers
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make your own candy apples at home:
- Wash and dry your apples. Remove the stems and insert a wooden stick or skewer into the top of each apple.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and corn syrup substitute. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved.
- If desired, add the red food coloring to give your candy apples a bright red color. Stir well.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer until it reaches the hard crack stage (300-310°F) on a candy thermometer. This should take about 20 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully dip each apple into the hot syrup, turning it to coat all sides. Hold the apple over the saucepan for a few seconds to let any excess syrup drip off.
- Place the candy-coated apples onto a greased baking sheet or wax paper to cool and harden. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes and Tips
Here are a few things to keep in mind when making candy apples:
- Make sure your candy thermometer is accurate and calibrated before starting this recipe. The temperature is critical for achieving the right texture and consistency.
- If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into a glass of cold water. If it forms a hard ball, it’s ready.
- You can use any type of apple for this recipe, but firm and crisp varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady work best.
- If you’re using honey or agave nectar as a substitute for corn syrup, be aware that they may affect the flavor and color of the candy coating. Experiment with different amounts and types of sweeteners to achieve your desired taste.
- If you want to add a twist to your candy apples, try rolling them in chopped nuts, sprinkles, or mini chocolate chips before the candy coating hardens.
- Store your candy apples in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Avoid placing them in the refrigerator, as this can cause the candy coating to become sticky or tacky.
Conclusion
Candy apples are a fun and festive treat that everyone can enjoy. By using a corn syrup substitute, you can make them healthier and more accessible for people with dietary restrictions. Whether you’re making them for a party or just for yourself, this easy candy apple recipe is sure to be a hit. So grab some apples, some sugar, and get cooking!