Candy Apples Without Corn Syrup

Name: Candy Apples Without Corn Syrup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 apples
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup water; 1/4 teaspoon vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon food coloring (optional); 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety); Wooden sticks or skewers; Optional toppings: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or coconut

Highlighted under: Golden Inspiration

I love making candy apples, and this version without corn syrup has become my go-to. The simple ingredients come together to create that crisp, glossy coating I crave. Each bite is a delightful mix of tart apple and sweet candy, making them perfect for fall festivities or a fun treat anytime. The best part is that I can control the level of sweetness and flavorings to suit my taste. Join me in making these nostalgic treats that evoke so many childhood memories!

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:47:35.082Z

When I first tried making candy apples without corn syrup, I was surprised by how well they turned out. Instead of corn syrup, I used sugar, water, and a touch of vinegar to achieve that perfect glossy finish. The key is to heat the sugar to just the right temperature, around 300°F (hard crack stage), ensuring that the coating hardens nicely without being overly sticky.

I've experimented with flavors by adding cinnamon or even a little food coloring for fun goes. The vibrant colors make them great for parties, and I love that I can customize them without sacrificing that classic candy apple taste. Give it a try, and you'll taste the difference!

Why You'll Love These Candy Apples
Classic sweet and tart apple flavor with a homemade touch
Customizable flavors and colors for any occasion
No corn syrup, making them a better choice for health-conscious eaters

Getting the Right Apples

Choosing the right type of apples is crucial for making perfect candy apples. I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which pairs beautifully with the sweet candy coating. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, feel free to experiment with Fuji or Honeycrisp varieties. Just ensure they are firm and crisp for the best texture after coating.

Before you start, it’s essential to wash the apples thoroughly to remove any wax or residue, allowing the candy coating to adhere properly. Dry them well, as excess moisture can cause the candy to slide off. This step is often overlooked, but it sets the stage for a sturdy candy apple that won’t disappoint.

Perfecting the Candy Coating

When making the candy coating, the temperature is key. Using a candy thermometer ensures accurate results; aim for 300°F, the hard crack stage. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the candy by dropping a bit in cold water—it should form hard beads. Be cautious, as the candy gets extremely hot and can cause burns.

Should your candy mixture crystallize before reaching the desired temperature, don’t panic! You can simply add a little more water and gently reheat, stirring lightly. This step helps dissolve the sugar crystals and enables a smooth, glossy finish once cooled.

Customizing Your Candy Apples

Have fun with toppings to give your candy apples a personal touch! Chopped nuts, colorful sprinkles, or even shredded coconut add texture and visual appeal. If you decide to use toppings, do so immediately after dipping the apples while the candy is still hot; this way, they stick nicely without falling off later.

For flavor twists, consider adding extracts like vanilla or almond to the candy mixture right before dipping. A few drops can create distinct flavor profiles without overpowering the classic apple taste, ensuring you can tailor each batch to match seasonal festivities or personal cravings.

Ingredients

For the Candy Coating

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 teaspoon vinegar
1/2 teaspoon food coloring (optional)

For the Apples

6 medium apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
Wooden sticks or skewers
Optional toppings: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or coconut

Steps

Prepare the Apples

Wash the apples thoroughly and dry them with a towel. Insert a wooden stick into the core of each apple, making sure it's secure.

Make the Candy Coating

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) using a candy thermometer.

Add Color (Optional)

If you're using food coloring, stir it into the candy mixture just before it reaches the right temperature.

Dip the Apples

Quickly dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, twirling it to ensure it is completely coated. Allow excess to drip off, and place the coated apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Let It Set

Allow the candy to harden completely, about 10-15 minutes. Once set, enjoy your homemade candy apples!

Pro Tips

For a festive twist, sprinkle some toppings like nuts or sprinkles right after dipping for added texture and flavor. Make sure the candy coating is hot enough for a great sheen, but avoid overheating to prevent burning.

Storing Candy Apples

Once your candy apples have set and hardened, you might wonder how to store them. Ideally, keep them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to prevent humidity from softening the candy exterior. Avoid refrigerating them as the moisture can lead to a sticky finish. Properly stored, your candy apples can last up to a week, though they are best enjoyed fresh.

If you're planning to make these ahead of time for a gathering, just prepare them the day before. This allows you to save time on festive occasions while still indulging in that homemade sweetness. Just remember to keep them away from direct sunlight to maintain their vibrant colors and crispiness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Encountering issues while making candy apples can be frustrating, but many common problems are easily fixed. If the candy coating doesn’t adhere well, ensure the apples are dry and check that your candy reaches the proper temperature. Alternatively, if the coating cracks or shatters, it may have cooled too much before dipping; try reheating it slightly.

If you find the candy too hard to bite into, your mixture may have reached too high of a temperature. In this case, consider lowering the heat next time or adjusting your cooking time to achieve a more tender coat. Remember, slight adjustments can lead to ideal candy apples that perfectly balance crunch and sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are tart and great for candy, you can use any firm apple variety to suit your taste.

→ What should I do if the candy coating is too thick?

If the candy mixture thickens too much before you can coat the apples, you can gently reheat it over low heat. Just don't let it boil again.

→ How can I store leftover candy apples?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, but they are best enjoyed the same day.

→ Can I make these in advance?

It's best to enjoy candy apples fresh, as the candy coating can become sticky over time. However, you can prep the ingredients earlier and dip them right before serving.