Ingredients
Scale
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Fuji recommended), washed and dried
- 6 wooden candy apple sticks
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 packet (0.14 oz) Kool-Aid powder (your choice of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: food coloring (matching Kool-Aid flavor)
Instructions
- Step 1: Insert a candy apple stick firmly into the stem end of each apple. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Step 2: In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Step 3: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, without stirring. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, making sure it doesn't touch the bottom.
- Step 4: Cook the mixture until the candy thermometer registers 300°F (149°C), or hard-crack stage. This will take about 15-20 minutes.
- Step 5: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly stir in the Kool-Aid powder, vanilla extract, and optional food coloring until well combined. Be careful, as the mixture may bubble vigorously.
- Step 6: Working quickly, dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, swirling to coat evenly. Lift the apple and let any excess candy drip off before placing it on the prepared baking sheet. Allow the candy apples to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Store your Kool-Aid Swirl Candy Apples in a cool, dry place, individually wrapped in cellophane, for up to 3 days.
- Avoid reheating, as the candy coating will become sticky and lose its beautiful swirl.
- For a festive presentation, sprinkle chopped nuts or edible glitter onto the apples before the candy hardens completely.
- Chef's secret: keep a bowl of ice water nearby to quickly cool and test a small spoonful of the candy mixture to ensure it reaches the perfect hard-crack stage!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American