Description
Colorful Cotton Candy Swirl Candy Apples bring together the crunch of a fresh apple and the magic of cotton candy-flavored candy coating, swirled with vibrant pink and blue colors. These whimsical treats are perfect for parties, gifts, or simply indulging in a little sweet nostalgia!
Ingredients
For the Candy Apples:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 6 wooden sticks
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 drops cotton candy-flavored extract (optional)
- Pink food coloring gel
- Blue food coloring gel
- Edible glitter or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples:
Wash and thoroughly dry the apples to remove any wax. Insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple and place them on a parchment-lined tray. - Make the Candy Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves. - Bring to Temperature:
Increase the heat to high and let the mixture boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer and heat until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C). Remove from heat immediately. - Add Flavor and Color:
Stir in the vanilla extract and optional cotton candy extract. Divide the candy mixture evenly into two heatproof bowls. Add pink food coloring to one and blue to the other, then swirl gently for a marbled effect. - Dip the Apples:
Carefully dip each apple into both bowls of candy, swirling as you lift it to create a colorful design. Let excess candy drip off before placing the coated apple back onto the parchment paper. - Decorate:
Sprinkle the candy apples with edible glitter or sprinkles while the candy is still warm. - Cool and Serve:
Allow the candy coating to harden completely at room temperature. Serve immediately or wrap in cellophane for storage or gifting.
Notes
- Work Quickly: The candy mixture hardens fast, so have everything ready before you start dipping.
- Test the Temperature: If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small amount of candy into cold water. It should harden immediately and crack when bitten.
- Wax Removal Tip: For best results, scrub apples with hot water and a little baking soda to remove the wax coating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Candy-Making
- Cuisine: American