Colorful Candy Apples With Cotton Candy are a lively and whimsical treat that combines the classic candy apple with a fun cotton candy twist. These candy apples are perfect for parties, festivals, or any celebration where you want to add a pop of color and fun to the dessert table. The candy coating is made from a simple mixture of sugar, water, and corn syrup, and you can customize the colors to match any theme or event. Once the candy coating sets, fluffy cotton candy is wrapped around the top of the apple for an eye-catching and delicious finishing touch. These sweet treats are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
INGREDIENTS
- Apples: 4 medium, for the base of the candy apples.
- Granulated sugar: 2 cups, to create the sweet candy coating.
- Water: 1 cup, for dissolving the sugar and corn syrup.
- Light corn syrup: ¼ cup, to help prevent crystallization and keep the candy coating smooth.
- Food coloring: Choose any colors you like to customize the look of your candy apples.
- Cotton candy: 1 bag, for a fun and colorful topping.
- Lollipop sticks or wooden skewers: To hold the apples securely for dipping and eating.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Wash and dry 4 medium apples thoroughly. Insert a lollipop stick or wooden skewer into the top of each apple to create a handle.
- Step 2:
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 cup water, and ¼ cup light corn syrup. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it comes to a boil.
- Step 3:
- Once the mixture is boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in a few drops of your desired food coloring.
- Step 4:
- Let the candy syrup cool slightly for about 1 minute, then carefully dip each apple into the syrup, making sure they are fully coated.
- Step 5:
- Place the coated apples onto a sheet of parchment paper and allow them to cool and harden completely.
- Step 6:
- Once the candy coating is firm, wrap a small amount of cotton candy around the top of each apple for a fun and colorful decoration.
Serving and Storage Tips
- These candy apples are best enjoyed the same day they are made, as the cotton candy can lose its fluffiness over time.
- If making in advance, store the candy-coated apples without the cotton candy and add the cotton candy just before serving.
Helpful Notes
- Be sure to let the candy syrup cool slightly before dipping the apples, as this will prevent the coating from being too hot and running off the apples.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Olivia recommends using different colors of cotton candy for each apple to create a colorful and vibrant display at your party.
How to Make Perfect Candy Apples
To make the perfect candy apples, be sure to wash and dry the apples thoroughly before dipping them. Any moisture on the apples can cause the candy coating to slip off. Additionally, use a candy thermometer to ensure the syrup reaches the correct temperature for a smooth, glossy finish. After the candy coating has set, add the cotton candy just before serving to keep it fluffy and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cotton candy?
Yes! Store-bought cotton candy works perfectly for this recipe. Choose different colors to add a fun variety to your candy apples.
How long can I store the candy apples?
The candy-coated apples can be stored for up to 2 days, but it's best to add the cotton candy just before serving for the freshest result.