Cotton Candy Swirl Candy Apples
These whimsical Cotton Candy Swirl Candy Apples are pastel-hued, glitter-dusted treats that bring carnival magic to your kitchen. With tart Granny Smith apples dipped in colorful, vanilla-flavored candy, they’re perfect for parties, gifting, or reliving summer fair memories.
Equipment
- Heavy-bottom saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
- Heatproof bowls
Ingredients
Candy Apples
- 8 Granny Smith apples washed and thoroughly dried
- 8 sturdy lollipop sticks or wooden skewers
- 2.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- gel food coloring pink, blue, purple or desired pastel shades
- edible glitter or sprinkles optional
Instructions
- Insert sticks into each apple and place on a parchment-lined tray. Ensure apples are fully dry to help the candy coating stick.
- In a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir until sugar dissolves. Stop stirring, clip on a candy thermometer, and let it heat to 300°F (hard crack stage), about 20–25 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Divide the mixture into bowls and tint with food coloring. Swirl gently with a toothpick or skewer to create a marbled effect.
- Quickly dip each apple into the candy mixture, allowing the colors to swirl. Twist gently and let excess drip off. Place back on tray to set.
- Before the coating sets, decorate with edible glitter or sprinkles if desired. Let apples cool and harden completely before serving or packaging.
Notes
For best results, use gel coloring for bold swirls without thinning the mixture. Granny Smith apples work best for tart contrast. Make ahead and store in a cool, dry place—avoid refrigeration. Get creative with sprinkles, glitter, or themed decorations!