Homemade Candy Apples Without Corn Syrup

Name: Homemade Candy Apples Without Corn Syrup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon vinegar; 1/4 teaspoon food coloring (optional); 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Gala work well); 4 wooden sticks or skewers

Highlighted under: Whisked Wonders

I have always loved the nostalgic taste of candy apples, but I wanted to make a version without corn syrup. After a few experiments in the kitchen, I discovered that it’s very much possible to create that glossy finish and delightful crunch using simple ingredients. The result is a sweet treat that brings back childhood memories, perfect for fall festivals or just a fun weekend dessert. Trust me, they’re a hit with family and friends alike!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:28:10.244Z

When I first attempted making candy apples without corn syrup, I was skeptical. How could I achieve that beautiful, glossy finish without it? But after playing around with sugar and water, I found the right balance. Boiling the mixture to a certain temperature made all the difference. The apples turned out vibrant and shiny, and the best part? The flavor was incredible, with just the right amount of sweetness!

Each time I make these candy apples, I find myself reminiscing about fairs and festivals. The texture is both intensely crunchy and satisfyingly sweet, and I enjoy adding a sprinkle of salt to balance the flavors. They’re surprisingly easy to make and are always a showstopper at gatherings. Plus, without corn syrup, I feel good about indulging in them!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients make it accessible for everyone
Perfectly shiny and crunchy coating without corn syrup
Tweak the flavors to your liking by adding spices

Tips for Perfectly Coated Apples

To achieve a glossy and crackly finish, ensure that the apples are completely clean and dry before the candy coating process begins. Any moisture on the apples can cause the sugar mixture to seize, resulting in a cloudy appearance. I recommend using a paper towel to dry the apples thoroughly, paying attention to the top where the stick is inserted.

When you cook the sugar mixture, it's crucial to monitor the temperature closely. The hard crack stage, around 300°F (150°C), is where you want to aim for optimal crunch. I advise using a candy thermometer to check the temperature accurately. If you don't have one, look for the mixture to turn a light amber color and reach a viscosity that’s thick yet pourable.

Flavor Variations to Try

While this basic candy apple recipe is delightful on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture before boiling for a warm flavor reminiscent of fall. Orange or lemon zest can also elevate the profile, giving a refreshing twist.

For a fun visual twist, you can use different colors of food dye to match occasions or themes, like red for Valentine's Day or green for St. Patrick's Day. Just remember to add it right after the mixture reaches the hard crack stage so it doesn’t alter the candy structure.

Ingredients

For the candy coating

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

For the apples

4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
4 wooden sticks or skewers

Make sure to wash and dry the apples thoroughly for the coating to stick well.

Instructions

Prepare the apples

Wash and dry the apples thoroughly, removing any wax. Insert the wooden sticks into the tops of the apples and set aside.

Cook the sugar mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and vinegar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat and let it boil without stirring until it reaches the hard crack stage (around 300°F or 150°C).

Add food coloring

If using food coloring, add it to the hot sugar mixture once it reaches the desired temperature and stir gently to combine.

Coat the apples

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

Let cool

Let the candy-coated apples cool at room temperature until the coating hardens, about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy your homemade candy apples!

Be cautious when handling the hot sugar mixture.

Pro Tips

For an added twist, sprinkle some chopped nuts or sprinkles on the coated apples before the sugar hardens.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Homemade candy apples are best enjoyed fresh, ideally within a day or two of making them. If you need to store them, place them in a cool, dry area, avoiding humidity which can cause the candy coating to become sticky. Using parchment paper to separate the apples is a great way to prevent them from sticking together.

If you're planning to make these in advance, consider prepping the apples and coating them the same day you intend to serve. This method ensures maximum crispness of the candy coating and freshness of the apples. If you do need to make them ahead, wait to coat them until closer to serving time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sugar mixture crystallizes while cooking, this could be due to stirring after the sugar has dissolved. Once the mixture is boiling, resist the urge to stir and instead swirl the pot gently. If crystallization occurs, you can try adding a few drops of water and reheat it; however, the best fix is to avoid stirring altogether after reaching the boil.

Should your candy apples cool too quickly or not set properly, it might be that the candy coating wasn't hot enough when you dipped the apples. Ensure your thermometer is calibrated correctly, and the mixture is continuously monitored until it reaches that golden, hard crack point.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! Any apple variety will work, but tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness of the candy well.

→ How can I avoid the candy apples sticking to each other?

Make sure the apples are completely cooled and separated on the parchment paper. You can also place them in a single layer in a container.

→ What can I do if my candy doesn’t harden?

If the candy remains sticky, it may not have reached the proper temperature. Use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy.

→ Can I store these candy apples?

Yes, store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. They’re best enjoyed within a few days.