A crunchy sweet treat you can make at home in one batch.
introduction
This Candy Apple Lollipops recipe gives you a crunchy candy shell with crisp Granny Smith apple inside. If you like easy apple sweets, try this simple idea and see how kids smile. For another apple dessert idea, check the apple and raisin cake recipe that uses fruit in a different way.
why make this recipe
You make this recipe because it is fun, quick, and uses common ingredients. It is a good snack for parties and holiday treats. The tart apple and hard candy are a nice contrast.
how to make Candy Apple Lollipops
Work in steps: prepare the apples, make the candy, dip the apple pieces, and let them cool. Keep your tools ready and work safely with hot sugar.
Ingredients :
- 2 large Granny Smith apples
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (or clear if you like)
- 12 small lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
- Cooking spray or a little oil for the tray
Directions :
- Wash and dry the apples. Peel if you prefer, but leaving the skin helps hold the slice.
- Cut apples into 12 thick slices (about 1/2 inch thick) and remove any seeds and core. Pat dry so they have no extra moisture. Insert a lollipop stick into each slice.
- Line a tray with parchment and lightly spray or brush a little oil so the candy will not stick.
- In a heavy saucepan, stir sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Heat on medium until sugar dissolves.
- Clip a candy thermometer to the pan. Boil without stirring until the syrup reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). This takes about 8–12 minutes. Watch it closely so it does not burn.
- Remove from heat and carefully stir in the food coloring if using. Do not breathe the steam.
- Working fast and with care, dip each apple slice into the hot candy to coat one side or the whole slice. Let excess drip off, then place on the prepared tray with the stick up.
- Let the candy harden at room temperature, about 20–30 minutes. Do not put in the fridge.
- Once set, store or serve as below.
how to serve Candy Apple Lollipops
Serve them on a platter or stick them into a piece of foam for display. They make a nice treat for kids, parties, or a fall table. Eat within a day or two for best crunch.
how to store Candy Apple Lollipops
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Place a sheet of parchment between layers. Do not store in a humid place because the candy will soften.
tips to make Candy Apple Lollipops
- Dry the apple slices very well. Any water makes the candy sputter.
- Use a candy thermometer to reach the hard crack stage.
- Work near the pan but move slowly and safely—hot sugar burns badly.
- If the candy starts to harden, you can warm it gently on low heat, but avoid stirring too much.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a good balance with the sweet shell.
variation (if any)
- Use whole small apples on sticks instead of slices for a classic look.
- Add a drop of cinnamon oil or apple extract to the candy for extra flavor.
- Make them clear by skipping food coloring, or try green coloring for a different look.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different apple?
A: Yes. Use firm apples. Granny Smith gives the best tart balance, but Fuji or Honeycrisp will work.
Q: How do I fix candy that crystallizes?
A: If sugar crystals form, discard and make a new batch. To help prevent it, avoid stirring once the syrup boils and use corn syrup.
Q: Can I make these ahead?
A: You can make them a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge in an airtight box, but they taste best the same day.
Q: Are these safe for small children?
A: They are very hard candy, so watch young children to avoid choking. Cut to smaller pieces for toddlers.
Q: What if my candy is too soft?
A: Heat the syrup a bit more until it reaches the hard crack stage (300°F). Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
Candy Apple Lollipops
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Candy Making
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fun and crunchy candy treat with tart Granny Smith apples, perfect for parties and holidays.
Ingredients
- 2 large Granny Smith apples
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (or clear if you like)
- 12 small lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
- Cooking spray or a little oil for the tray
Instructions
- Wash and dry the apples, optionally peel them.
- Cut apples into 12 thick slices (about 1/2 inch thick), remove seeds and core, then pat dry.
- Insert a lollipop stick into each slice.
- Line a tray with parchment and lightly spray or brush with oil.
- In a heavy saucepan, stir sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
- Clip a candy thermometer to the pan; boil without stirring until the syrup reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), about 8–12 minutes.
- Carefully stir in the food coloring (if using) and remove from heat.
- Dip each apple slice into the hot candy to coat, letting excess drip off, then place on the prepared tray with the stick up.
- Let the candy harden at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid storing in humid conditions to maintain crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 lollipop
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg