Classic Cotton Candy Swirl Apples
A delightful twist on traditional candy apples, these cotton candy swirl apples bring a fun, nostalgic flavor with vibrant colors that make them perfect for parties and special occasions.
Equipment
- Candy Thermometer
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) washed and dried
- 6 wooden sticks for inserting into apples
- 2 cups granulated sugar for the candy coating
- ½ cup light corn syrup to prevent crystallization
- ½ cup water to dissolve sugar
- ¼ tsp cream of tartar for smooth texture
- 1 tsp vanilla extract for added flavor
- Pink and blue food coloring gel or any cotton candy-inspired colors
- Cotton candy-flavored extract optional, for enhanced flavor
- Edible glitter or sprinkles optional, for decoration
Instructions
- Wash apples thoroughly and dry completely. Insert wooden sticks into the center of each apple.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Stir gently and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Use a candy thermometer and heat the mixture until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and cotton candy extract (if using). Divide mixture into two bowls and add pink food coloring to one and blue to the other.
- Pour both colored mixtures back into the saucepan, gently swirling with a skewer. Do not overmix.
- Dip each apple into the mixture, twirling to coat evenly. Let excess drip off and place apples on parchment paper.
- While still tacky, sprinkle with edible glitter or sprinkles if desired. Let apples cool completely before serving.
Notes
For best results, use fresh, firm apples and work quickly when dipping them into the candy mixture.