Black Poison Candy Apples (Printer View)

Glossy black apples coated in crisp candy shell, offering tart flavor and spooky elegance for festive occasions.

# Components:

→ Apples

01 - 6 small to medium Granny Smith apples, washed and thoroughly dried
02 - 6 sturdy wooden sticks or lollipop sticks

→ Candy Coating

03 - 2 cups granulated sugar
04 - 3/4 cup water
05 - 1/2 cup light corn syrup
06 - 1/2 teaspoon black gel food coloring
07 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, for a smoother finish)

# Method:

01 - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease. Insert a wooden stick into the stem end of each apple, pushing halfway through.
02 - Combine granulated sugar, water, light corn syrup, and cream of tartar (if using) in a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stir gently until integrated.
03 - Set the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture without stirring until it reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage). Swirl the pan gently if needed to distribute heat.
04 - Remove the saucepan from heat when at temperature. Swiftly stir in vanilla extract and black gel food coloring until evenly mixed.
05 - Working quickly with caution, tilt the pan and dip each apple into the hot syrup, swirling to fully coat. Allow extra candy mixture to drip off before setting each apple on the prepared baking sheet.
06 - Let apples cool at room temperature until the candy shell hardens, approximately 15–20 minutes.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Crisp fresh apples give each bite a perfect balance of juicy and tart.
  • The candy coating delivers a glossy black shine that steals the show at any party.
  • Simple pantry ingredients mean you do not need specialty items
  • Ready in about half an hour so it is great for last minute gatherings
  • Naturally gluten free and vegetarian
02 -
  • These apples are naturally gluten free and vegetarian
  • High sugar content delivers that classic crunch
  • The color is intense but the flavor is classic with a hint of vanilla
  • You can freeze these for up to a month
  • Black gel food coloring is potent and can stain so wear gloves and clean up spills quickly
  • Cream of tartar is optional but gives a super smooth set
03 -
  • Dry apples fully for maximum candy adhesion
  • Let syrup reach true hard crack stage for best snap
  • Do not skip gloves when dipping for easy cleanup
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