Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8.0
Ingredients: 8 medium apples, washed and dried; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 3/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Wooden sticks or skewers; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Classic Baking Recipes

I absolutely love making Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples for special occasions! The combination of tart apples with a sweet and crunchy cinnamon sugar coating creates a wonderful treat. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that reminds me of childhood fairs. Plus, this recipe is surprisingly simple and allows for customization with your favorite toppings. Whether it’s a fun family project or an impressive dessert for guests, these candy apples are sure to please everyone!

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-02-10T23:17:36.992Z

When I first tried making candy apples, I knew I wanted to put a unique twist on the classic recipe. The addition of cinnamon sugar not only enhances the flavor but also gives them a lovely appearance. I found that letting the apples cool slightly after dipping them in the candy coating helps to create a perfectly crunchy layer that holds the sugar. It makes all the difference!

Experimenting with different types of apples has also been a fun part of this process. I’ve found that a tart apple, like Granny Smith, pairs beautifully with the sweet caramel. Using organic apples is a great way to ensure that my treats are as tasty as they are beautiful, and it also makes me feel good about serving them to family and friends.

Why You'll Love These Apples
A unique twist on a classic treat
Crunchy, sweet, and Cinnamon-scented coating
Perfect for parties and gatherings

Choosing the Right Apples

When selecting apples for your Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples, opt for firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji. These apples hold their shape well during the candying process and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the candy coating. Ensure the apples are thoroughly washed to remove any wax coating that might prevent the candy from adhering properly. Dry them thoroughly before inserting the sticks; any remaining moisture will interfere with the candy's adherence.

Another consideration is the size of the apples. Medium-sized apples are ideal as they provide a good balance between candy coating and fruit. If you're serving these at a gathering, consider using a mix of apple types for added visual appeal. Just be mindful that different apples may have varying baking times, so keep an eye on the candy coating to maintain consistency.

Mastering the Candy Coating

The candy coating is crucial for achieving that perfect glossy finish. When cooking the sugar mixture, it's important to monitor the temperature closely. Sugar syrup can easily go from perfect to burnt, so using a candy thermometer is highly recommended. Cook until the mixture reaches 300°F, and look for that hard crack stage—this ensures that the candy will set nicely without being sticky. If you don't have a thermometer, you can drop a small amount into cold water; it should harden into brittle threads.

Once you've mixed in the cinnamon and vanilla, work quickly! The candy coating begins to harden as it cools. Dip each apple swiftly and allow excess candy to drip back into the saucepan before placing them on the parchment-lined baking sheet. This ensures a thicker layer of candy coating on the apples and gives them a beautiful finish.

Variations and Toppings

Feel free to get creative with toppings after you've coated your apples in cinnamon sugar. Chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds add a delightful crunch that complements the sweetness. Alternatively, consider sprinkles or melted chocolate for a fun twist—simply drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled candy apples for an added layer of flavor and a decorative touch. Remember to work quickly while the candy is still warm to ensure the toppings stick.

For a unique flavor experience, you might also experiment with different spices in the coating. For instance, a hint of nutmeg or ginger can create a warm, inviting profile that brings additional depth to the classic cinnamon flavor. Think about pairing the apples with complementary elements like caramel drizzle or even a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness further.

Ingredients

Candy Apple Ingredients

8 medium apples, washed and dried
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
3/4 cup water
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Wooden sticks or skewers
Pinch of salt

Feel free to get creative with additional toppings such as chopped nuts, sprinkles, or chocolate drizzle!

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Insert wooden sticks into the cores of the apples, using them as handles.

Make the Candy Coating

In a saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Heat over medium heat until boiling, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Add Flavoring

Once boiling, stop stirring and let it cook to a temperature of 300°F (hard crack stage) for about 10 minutes.

Add Cinnamon

Remove from heat, stir in the cinnamon and vanilla extract immediately.

Dip the Apples

Quickly dip each apple into the candy mixture, turning to coat. Allow excess to drip off.

Cool and Enjoy

Place the dipped apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool until set completely.

Once cooled and set, these candy apples are ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try rolling the candy-coated apples in crushed nuts or sprinkles before the candy hardens. This adds texture and flavor!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apples are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Avoid refrigerating them as the humidity can cause the candy coating to become sticky. If you're planning to make them ahead of time for an event, consider allowing them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in parchment paper to preserve their crunch and freshness.

If you find yourself with too many candy apples and want to freeze them, it's best to opt for the uncoated apples. You can freeze the washed and dried apples, then prepare the candy coating fresh when you're ready to serve. This will ensure the best texture and flavor when enjoyed, as the candy coating is at its best when freshly made.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One of the most common issues when making candy apples is the candy not adhering properly. This can happen if the apples aren't dried well after washing, as moisture can prevent a strong bond between the candy and the apple. Additionally, if your candy mixture isn't hot enough when you dip the apples, it may not set correctly. Ensure the mixture reaches the proper temperature before dipping to achieve the best results.

If you find that your candy coating is too hard, try adjusting your cooking time slightly during your next attempt. You might have cooked the sugar syrup a little too long. Conversely, if the candy is too soft, ensure you reached the hard crack stage of 300°F. Making adjustments in your temperature monitoring will lead you to perfect candy coating in no time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, but tart apples like Granny Smith work best with the sweet coating.

→ What should I do if the candy syrup hardens too quickly?

You can reheat it gently over low heat until it melts again.

→ How should I store the finished candy apples?

Store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

→ Can I make these candy apples ahead of time?

Yes, but they are best consumed within a few days for optimal crispiness.