Homemade Candy Apples Without Corn Syrup

Name: Homemade Candy Apples Without Corn Syrup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Fuji); 2 cups granulated sugar; 1/2 cup water; 1/4 teaspoon vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); Wooden sticks or skewers

Highlighted under: Bakes & Treats

I absolutely love making homemade candy apples without corn syrup! Not only does this method bring out the incredible sweetness of the apples, but it also allows me to customize the flavor and colors. With just a few simple ingredients from my pantry, I can create a fun and festive treat that's perfect for any occasion. Plus, I enjoy experimenting with different toppings, like nuts or sprinkles, to make each apple unique. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll never want to go back to store-bought versions!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:10:29.794Z

When I first attempted to make candy apples, I realized that many recipes relied on corn syrup, which I prefer to avoid. So, I decided to create my own version using sugar, water, and a hint of vinegar. The result was a gorgeous, glossy coating that hardens perfectly without the need for corn syrup. It felt rewarding to make this classic treat from scratch.

One tip I discovered is to ensure your apples are clean and dry before dipping them in the candy mixture. This prevents the coating from slipping off. I also recommend using apples that are firm and sweet to get the best flavor balance. Now, candy apples are a delightful staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
No corn syrup, just pure, natural ingredients
A fun activity to do with kids or for a party
Visually stunning and deliciously sweet

Understanding the Candy Coating

The candy coating on these apples is what makes them truly special. When you bring the sugar mixture to the hard crack stage, you're aiming for that perfect balance where the syrup becomes firm enough to hold its shape but remains glossy and smooth when applied to the apples. Using a candy thermometer is crucial here; without it, you might miss the target temp of 300°F (149°C), leading to either a too-soft result or burnt sugar. The visual cue of a shimmering, consistently colored syrup will help indicate that you're nearing completion.

Another key factor in the candy mixture is the inclusion of vinegar. This may seem unusual, but vinegar helps to prevent crystallization of the sugar, maintaining that beautiful glassy finish. If you find your mixture begins to crystallize too early, gently reheating it and stirring might salvage it, but be cautious about overdoing it as too much stirring can lead to unwanted texture changes.

Best Apples for Candying

Selecting the right apple is just as important as mastering the candy mixture. While Granny Smith and Fuji are popular choices due to their robust nature and tart flavor, you can certainly experiment with other varieties. Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples also work well since they offer a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. Just ensure you choose apples that are firm and not too soft, as softer varieties may disintegrate or lose their shape during the candying process.

Before coating, make sure to wash the apples thoroughly—this removes any wax that can interfere with the syrup's adhesion. You can even soak them in water and vinegar for a few minutes for extra cleanliness. Additionally, let them dry completely; moisture on the surface can lead to poor coating adhesion and could cause the candy to bead up rather than smoothly coat the apple.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a fun candy-making session!

Ingredients

8 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Fuji)
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 teaspoon vinegar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Wooden sticks or skewers

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start making these delicious candy apples!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly coated candy apples!

Prepare the Apples

Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Insert a wooden stick or skewer into the core of each apple, leaving enough exposed for easy handling.

Make the Candy Mixture

In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and vinegar. If you’re using cinnamon, add it here. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Cook the Mixture

Continue to cook the mixture without stirring until it reaches a hard crack stage (about 300°F or 149°C). Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.

Dip the Apples

Once the mixture reaches the correct temperature, quickly dip each apple into the syrup, ensuring it's evenly coated. Allow any excess syrup to drip off.

Cool and Serve

Place the coated apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool completely. Once set, they are ready to enjoy!

Your homemade candy apples are now ready to be shared or savored!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding food coloring to your candy mixture to create different colored apples. Just remember to use gel colors to avoid changing the consistency of the syrup.

Storing Your Candy Apples

Once you've made your fabulous candy apples, you'll want to store them correctly to maintain their crunchy coating. It's best to keep them at room temperature in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in the fridge, as the humidity can cause the candy coating to become sticky and lose its delightful crunch. Ideally, consume them within 1-2 days for the best texture and flavor.

If you're looking to make these apples ahead of time, allow them to cool completely before packaging them individually in cellophane or wax paper. This can help keep them fresh longer and make for easy gift-giving!

Topping and Flavor Variations

The beauty of homemade candy apples lies in their versatility. After you've dipped them in the candy mixture and allowed them to cool slightly, you can roll or sprinkle them with various toppings. Chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or colorful sprinkles can add texture and visual appeal. For a gourmet twist, consider drizzling with melted chocolate or caramel once they’ve cooled; just make sure the apples are completely set before adding these layers.

For those looking to experiment with flavors, you can infuse the candy mixture with spices beyond cinnamon—think nutmeg or even a dash of cayenne for a sweet and spicy kick. Adding a few drops of flavor extracts, like vanilla or almond, right before reaching the hard crack stage can also elevate the taste profile, making your candy apples even more exciting!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, pears or bananas can also be dipped in candy, but make sure they are firm to hold the coating.

→ How do I store leftover candy apples?

Store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

→ What can I use if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

You can test the candy by dropping a small amount in cold water; if it forms a hard ball, it's ready.

→ Can I add toppings to my candy apples?

Absolutely! Before the syrup hardens, you can roll the apples in chopped nuts, sprinkles, or crushed candies.