Cinnamon Glazed Candy Apples

Name: Cinnamon Glazed Candy Apples
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 6 medium-sized apples; 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Chopped nuts or sprinkles (for garnish, optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Creations from the Oven

I love making Cinnamon Glazed Candy Apples, especially during the fall. There's something incredibly satisfying about dipping fresh, crisp apples into a bubbling cinnamon-infused sugar glaze. The fragrant aroma fills the kitchen, reminding me of autumn festivals and bonfire nights. Plus, these treats are not only delightful to eat, but they also make a beautiful centerpiece for any gathering. You can customize the toppings as you like, adding nuts or sprinkles, which makes them even more fun to create. Give these candy apples a try for a sweet adventure!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:05:36.646Z

As I was experimenting with candy-making techniques, I stumbled upon the idea of infusing the classic caramel glaze with warm cinnamon. The first time I tried it, the smell was intoxicating, and the apples glistened with a gorgeous golden sheen. I realized that the cinnamon not only elevates the flavor but also creates a delightful aroma that beckons you to take a bite. It's a simple twist that makes a world of difference.

One critical tip I learned is to ensure your apples are thoroughly washed and dried before dipping them. Any moisture can prevent the glaze from adhering properly, resulting in a less-than-perfect finish. Also, if you want a thicker coating, allow the first layer of glaze to set briefly before dipping a second time. The result is a glorious, crunchy sweet treat that doesn’t just look good but tastes incredible!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The unique blend of sweet candy and warm cinnamon aroma.
A fun activity for both kids and adults during fall celebrations.
Perfect for parties or as a festive homemade gift.

Choosing the Right Apples

When making Cinnamon Glazed Candy Apples, the choice of apples can greatly influence the final taste and texture. Opt for medium-sized, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These varieties are not only robust enough to hold the glaze but also strike a pleasant balance between tartness and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor. Ensure that the apples are fresh; blemishes or soft spots can lead to undesirable results in both texture and visual appeal.

It's also advisable to wash the apples thoroughly to remove any wax or residues that may prevent the glaze from adhering properly. A good soak in warm water with a bit of vinegar can help, followed by a thorough rinse. After washing, drying them completely is key to achieving a smooth, glossy glaze that forms well.

Mastering the Glaze

The sugar glaze for candy apples must reach a specific temperature to achieve the desired consistency. Using a candy thermometer is highly recommended; you want the mixture to reach between 300°F to 310°F (hard crack stage). At this temperature, the glaze will turn into a crunchy shell as it cools. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test it by dropping a small amount into cold water—if it hardens immediately, you're good to go.

While cooking the glaze, watch closely for color changes. It should transition from clear to a pale yellow, then deepen to a rich amber hue. This caramelization not only brings out flavors but also gives a beautiful shine to the final product. If you overcook, it can become too dark and bitter, while undercooking can lead to a syrupy texture that doesn’t set properly.

Personalizing Your Candy Apples

After dipping the apples in the glaze, the fun truly begins with personalization. You can add a sprinkle of coarse sea salt for a delightful salty-sweet contrast or roll them in crushed nuts for added crunch. If you're feeling creative, consider drizzling melted chocolate or white chocolate over the set glaze for a gourmet touch. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor each apple to suit your taste and those of your guests.

When storing your finished candy apples, keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Avoid refrigerating them, as moisture can cause the glaze to become sticky. If you plan to make a large batch, potential serving size adjustments can be managed by simply doubling or halving the ingredients, ensuring you still maintain the integrity of the candy coating.

Ingredients

Candy Apples

6 medium-sized apples
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Chopped nuts or sprinkles (for garnish, optional)

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Remove the stems and insert a lollipop stick into the top of each apple.

Make the Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, water, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat. Bring to a boil without stirring until it reaches a deep amber color.

Add Color (Optional)

If using, add the red food coloring to the glaze and stir quickly to combine.

Dip the Apples

Carefully dip each apple into the hot glaze, swirling to coat evenly. Allow the excess glaze to drip off before placing on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Garnish

Sprinkle chopped nuts or candy sprinkles on top of the glazed apples, if desired.

Let Set

Allow the candy apples to set at room temperature until the glaze hardens.

Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Glazed Candy Apples!

Pro Tips

For a more intense cinnamon flavor, you can add an extra pinch of ground cinnamon to the glaze. Make sure to work quickly when dipping the apples, as the glaze will harden upon cooling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your glaze doesn't adhere to the apples, it may be due to moisture on the surface or insufficient temperature during cooking. Ensure your apples are completely dry, and that the glaze has reached the right temperature before dipping. If the glaze is too thick or hard to dip, you can return it to the stove, adding a tablespoon of water to thin it out slightly.

Another common issue is the glaze not setting properly. If this happens, it could be undercooked. If you're not sure, err on the side of cooking it a bit longer, but be cautious as it can quickly go from perfect to burnt. Have a bowl of cold water ready to test the consistency before you dip the apples.

Serve and Enjoy

Cinnamon Glazed Candy Apples are great as stand-alone treats but can also add flair to various occasions. They can serve as festive decorations for Halloween parties or autumn gatherings, making any setting feel seasonal and cheerful. To accommodate different guests' preferences, try mixing and matching toppings, ensuring there's something for everyone.

For an elegant presentation, arrange the finished apples on a tiered stand or a decorative platter. This elevates their visual appeal and invites guests to grab one as they mingle. Just remember to offer napkins, as the glaze can be sticky and may need to be enjoyed right away!

Storage Tips

Once your candy apples are set and decorated, proper storage is essential to maintain their quality. Ideally, consume them within 1-3 days for the best taste and texture. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent any moisture from ruining the glaze's crunchiness.

If you need to make the apples ahead of time, consider sealing them tightly with plastic wrap, placed in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. If the glaze starts to soften or show signs of stickiness, you can gently reheat the apples in a low oven (around 170°F) for a few minutes to re-crisp the glaze—just keep a close watch to prevent melting!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! Any variety of apple can work, but I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast with the sweetness of the glaze.

→ How do I store leftover candy apples?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigeration as it can cause the glaze to become sticky.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a day in advance, but be sure to keep them stored properly to maintain their freshness.

→ What can I use instead of lollipop sticks?

You can use wooden skewers or even strong toothpicks as alternatives for dipping the apples.