Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized Granny Smith apples; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup corn syrup; 1/2 cup water; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Wooden sticks or skewers

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive Treats

I adore making Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples, especially during the fall months. There’s something whimsical about taking a crisp apple and coating it in a crunchy layer of cinnamon-sugar goodness. Not only do they look beautiful, but the contrast of flavors makes them an unforgettable treat. I love sharing these apples with friends and family, who can’t resist the sweet aroma wafting as they cook. Whether for a cozy gathering or simply to enjoy at home, these candy apples bring a delightful sweetness to any occasion.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-02-15T05:49:35.521Z

When I first attempted to make Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples, I thought it would be a challenge, but it turned out to be surprisingly easy and fulfilling. I started with Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which pairs perfectly with the sweet candy coating. As the sugar caramelized, the kitchen filled with a fragrant aroma that excited everyone.

One crucial tip I learned is to dip the apples while the caramel is still hot, ensuring an even coat. Also, using a candy thermometer helped me achieve the perfect temperature for a hard candy shell. These little touches make all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors in every bite
A delightful crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft apple
An easy and fun recipe to make with loved ones

Mastering the Candy Coating

To achieve the perfect candy coating for your Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples, it's essential to reach the hard crack stage of 300°F. Use a reliable candy thermometer to avoid any guesswork. If left too long on the heat, the mixture can harden to a point where it's difficult to coat the apples, while undercooking may result in a sticky coating that won't set properly. Watch for a clear, glossy finish and a slight bubbling before you remove it from the heat.

Another critical aspect of the candy coating is the consistency. When stirring the mixture, ensure that the sugar is fully dissolved to prevent graininess. Striking the right balance between the sugar, corn syrup, and water is essential; corn syrup helps to create a smooth, glossy finish, preventing the sugar from crystallizing as it cools.

Choosing the Right Apples

Granny Smith apples are excellent for this recipe due to their tartness, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the candy coating. Selecting apples that are firm and blemish-free is essential for the best texture and appearance; softer apples may not hold up during the candying process. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, you can experiment with other crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji, but be aware that sweeter apples may require slight adjustments to the sugar content in the recipe.

When preparing the apples, it’s important to peel off any wax coating commonly found on grocery-store apples, as it can interfere with the candy coating's adhesion. A simple wash followed by drying will do wonders to ensure that the candy adheres well and maintains its glistening finish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start!

Candy Apples Ingredients

4 medium-sized Granny Smith apples
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup corn syrup
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Wooden sticks or skewers

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your candy apples!

Prepare the Apples

Wash and thoroughly dry the Granny Smith apples. Insert wooden sticks into the top of each apple, about halfway through, to create handles.

Make the Candy Coating

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring until it reaches a temperature of 300°F (hard crack stage).

Add Flavor and Color

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in cinnamon and vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool slightly until it is not too hot to touch.

Dip the Apples

Quickly dip each apple into the candy coating, swirling to cover entirely. Allow excess to drip off and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Let Them Set

Let the candy apples cool and harden for about 30 minutes at room temperature before serving or storing.

Enjoy your homemade candy apples while they're fresh!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can sprinkle some crushed nuts or sprinkles on the candy coating before it sets.

Serving Suggestions

These Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples make for a wonderful centerpiece during fall gatherings or Halloween parties. To elevate the presentation, consider sprinkling additional cinnamon-sugar on top of the apples just before they set. This little touch can create a beautiful and aromatic finish that enhances both the taste and visual appeal.

Once you’ve coated the apples with the candy and let them set, you can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for an added layer of flavor. Allow the apples to cool completely before serving, as this helps the chocolate set. Depending on the occasion, you might also consider serving slices of the candy apples on a platter for easier sharing.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To store your candy apples, place them in a cool, dry area, ideally at room temperature. Avoid humidity, as it can lead to a sticky coating. If desired, you can wrap each apple individually in cellophane to maintain freshness. However, it’s best to consume them within 2–3 days for optimal flavor and texture, as the candy may start to lose its crispiness over time.

If you want to prepare these delicious treats ahead of time, consider making the candy coating and dipping the apples just before your event. The apples can be prepared a few hours in advance, but the candy layer will be at its best right after it's coated. If any leftover candy remains, you could pour it into molds to create additional candy pieces that’ll complement your apples beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite apple varieties, but note that sweeter apples may alter the balance of flavors.

→ How do I store leftover candy apples?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days for optimal freshness.

→ What can I do if the candy coating doesn't harden?

Ensure your mixture reaches 300°F during cooking. If it remains soft, it may not have reached hard crack stage.

→ Can I flavor the candy coating differently?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different extracts, like almond or peppermint for unique taste variations.