Every fall I look forward to making candied and caramel apples for me and the kids. This year we had to make a few extras which are going to be used as prizes at the Halloween festival at Miss Ladybug’s school. They are really very easy to make and so good I thought I’d share the recipe with all of you.

Wash and dry 8 apples (Granny Smith are my fave to use). Remove any stems by twisting them until they pop off and insert a popsicle stick half way into the apple. Set these guys aside for later.

In a medium saucepan combine the following:

3 cups sugar

1 cup water

1/4 cup red hot candies

1/2 cup light corn syrup

1/2 teaspoon red food coloring

I attach my candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan so that the tip is submersed but not touching the bottom of the pan. Cook these ingredients over medium to medium-high heat without stirring until mixture is boiling.  When mixture has reached 300 degrees on a candy thermometer (This should take about 20 minutes) remove the pan and place it in a cool bath for a few seconds to arrest cooking.

Hold the saucepan at an angle with one hand while you dip and roll the apple in the candy with the other. Place the apples on a sheet of wax paper that has been heavily sprayed with cooking spray. Work quickly because the mixture will harden fast. After the apples have cooled carefully peel them from the wax paper and dip the bottom in white sugar.

When it is time to clean up I usually fill my saucepan with water and put anything with hardened candy on it into the pan. Bring the water to a boil and use a brush dipped in water to remove any stray candy from the sides of the pan. The boiling water will dissolve the candy and then you can pour it down the drain and wash your dishes as usual. Enjoy!