Name: Blackout Candy Apples Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8-10 apples; 8-10 skewers or striped straws; 2½ cups sugar; ⅔ cup water; ½ cup light corn syrup; ½ tsp black paste food color; 2 drops cinnamon flavor

Indulge in a classic treat with a spooky twist, perfect for Halloween. The Blackout Candy Apples are a fun and easy-to-make dessert that will surely intrigue your guests. The recipe calls for a few simple ingredients and a bit of your time to create these deliciously dark and flavorful treats.

Photos of Blackout Candy Apples Recipe

While most of the ingredients like apples, sugar, and corn syrup are commonly found in households, Black paste food color might not be readily available. This particular item is essential to give the candy apples their distinctive black color, so make sure to pick it up from a supermarket or a baking supply store if you don't already have it. The cinnamon flavor is another important component of the recipe, providing that classic warmth to the candy coating.

Ingredients for Blackout Candy Apples

Apples: The base of the candy apple recipe. Any variety works, but tart apples like Granny Smith can balance out the sweetness of the candy coating.

Skewers or striped straws: These will act as the handle for your candy apples. Skewers are traditional, but striped straws can add a fun visual effect.

Sugar: The main ingredient in the candy coating, providing sweetness.

Water: Helps to dissolve the sugar and create a smooth, even candy coating.

Light corn syrup: Prevents the sugar from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth candy coating.

Black paste food color: Gives the candy apples their signature blackout look.

Cinnamon flavor: Adds a warm, spicy note to the sweet candy coating.

One reader, Eileen Dykes says:

These blackout candy apples are a game-changer! The deep black color is stunning, and the cinnamon flavor adds a delightful twist. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a show-stopping treat that's perfect for Halloween or any special occasion. Highly recommend trying it out!

Eileen Dykes

Techniques Required for Making Blackout Candy Apples

How to prepare the apples: Wash and dry the apples before adding the skewers or striped straws.

How to cook the sugar mixture: Combine sugar, water, and corn syrup in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture starts to boil. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the candy thermometer reaches 300 degrees. Alternatively, cook until a small amount of the mixture dropped into a cold cup of water separates into hard candy.

How to dip the apples: Dip each apple in the sugar mixture to quickly coat it and then place the apples on the prepared cookie sheet to set.

How To Make Blackout Candy Apples

These blackout candy apples are the perfect Halloween treats! Crisp apples are dipped into black-colored sugar and corn syrup for a quick fruit dessert.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

10apples
2½cupssugar
⅔cupwater
½cuplight corn syrup
½tspblack paste food color
2dropscinnamon flavor

Instructions

Place parchment paper onto a cookie sheet and spray with cooking spray.
Wash your apples and let dry. Add the skewers.
Cook sugar, water, and corn syrup in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until sugar is dissolved and starts to boil. Cooking for 10 to 12 minutes or until candy thermometer reaches 300 degrees F.
Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon flavoring and food coloring. Mix well.
Dip each apple in mixture to quickly coat it and place apples on cookie sheet. Let set.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 336.41kcal
Fat: 0.34g
Saturated Fat: 0.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.09g
Carbohydrates: 88.22g
Fiber: 4.37g
Sugar: 81.90g
Protein: 0.47g
Sodium: 13.52mg
Calcium: 14.18mg
Potassium: 195.94mg
Iron: 0.24mg
Vitamin A: 5.46µg
Vitamin C: 8.37mg

Helpful Technique for Making Blackout Candy Apples

When dipping the apples in the candy mixture, tilt the pot at an angle. This will allow you to coat more of the apple without having to submerge it completely. Also, rotate the apple in the mixture to ensure an even coating. After dipping, allow the excess to drip off for a few seconds before placing on the parchment paper. This will help achieve a smooth and even surface on your candy apples.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Blackout Candy Apples

Prep ahead: Wash and dry the apples in advance to save time when you're ready to make the candy apples.

Quick coating: Work efficiently when dipping the apples in the candy mixture to ensure a smooth and even coating.

Chill the apples: Place the coated apples in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process, allowing you to enjoy them sooner.

Organize your workspace: Set up all your ingredients and tools beforehand to streamline the candy apple-making process.

Use a candy thermometer: Monitoring the temperature accurately will help you achieve the perfect candy consistency without guesswork.

Substitute Ingredients For Blackout Candy Apples Recipe

apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and can be used as a substitute for apples in candy apple recipes. They also hold up well to the candy coating.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of sugar. It will add a unique flavor and sweetness to the candy coating.
water - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can add a hint of fruity flavor to the candy coating while providing the necessary liquid component.
light corn syrup - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for corn syrup, adding a rich and distinct flavor to the candy coating.
black paste food color - Substitute with purple food color: Purple food color can be used to achieve a similar dark hue in the candy coating.
cinnamon flavor - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a warm and aromatic flavor similar to cinnamon in the candy coating.

Presentation Ideas for Blackout Candy Apples

Elevate the candy apples on a pedestal: Present the candy apples on a sleek, modern pedestal to add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Garnish with edible gold leaf: Add a touch of luxury by delicately placing edible gold leaf on the candy apples, creating a stunning visual effect.
Incorporate a smoke element: Infuse a hint of smokiness by presenting the candy apples under a glass dome filled with applewood smoke, creating a captivating sensory experience.
Utilize a mirror plating technique: Plate the candy apples on a mirror-like surface to create a visually striking and elegant presentation that reflects the beauty of the dish.
Incorporate a seasonal centerpiece: Surround the candy apples with seasonal foliage or flowers to create a visually appealing centerpiece that complements the flavors of the dish.
Present on a bed of spun sugar: Display the candy apples on a delicate bed of spun sugar to add an ethereal and whimsical touch to the presentation.
Use a custom-designed serving dish: Serve the candy apples in a custom-designed dish that showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of the dish, elevating the overall dining experience.
Incorporate a dramatic lighting element: Illuminate the candy apples with a spotlight or LED lighting to create a dramatic and captivating presentation that highlights the beauty of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Blackout Candy Apples

Cutting board: Used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Knife: Essential for cutting and slicing various ingredients.
Candy thermometer: Necessary for accurately measuring the temperature of the candy mixture.
Pot: Used for cooking the sugar, water, and corn syrup mixture.
Skewers or striped straws: Used to insert into the apples for easy handling and eating.
Cookie sheet: Used for setting the coated apples to cool and harden.
Parchment paper: Placed on the cookie sheet to prevent the candy apples from sticking.

Storing and Freezing Blackout Candy Apples

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for blackout candy apples:

Let the candy apples cool completely before storing. This usually takes about 1 hour at room temperature.
Once cooled, wrap each candy apple individually in plastic wrap or place them in separate sealed containers. This prevents them from sticking together.
For short-term storage: Place the wrapped candy apples in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dry place for up to 3-5 days. Avoid refrigerating as this can cause the candy coating to become sticky.
For longer storage: You can freeze candy apples for up to 2 months.
- Place the individually wrapped apples on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the apples to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date so you can keep track of when they were frozen.
To thaw, remove the desired number of candy apples from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 1 hour before serving. Do not refreeze once thawed.

Interesting Fact About Blackout Candy Apples

The Blackout Candy Apples recipe is a fun and spooky twist on the classic candy apple. The black paste food color used in this recipe gives the apples a unique and striking appearance, perfect for Halloween or themed parties. These candy apples are not only delicious but also make for a visually stunning treat, adding a touch of mystery and excitement to any event.

Is Making Blackout Candy Apples at Home Cost-Effective?

This blackout candy apples recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and readily available, and the process is straightforward. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it an affordable treat. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10. The striking appearance and delightful taste make it a hit for parties and gatherings, and the cost-effectiveness adds to its appeal.

Are Blackout Candy Apples Healthy or Unhealthy?

The blackout candy apples recipe is a visually striking dessert, but it is not a healthy choice. The main ingredients are sugar, corn syrup, and food coloring, which provide empty calories and no nutritional value. Consuming excessive amounts of added sugars can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Additionally, the black food coloring may contain artificial ingredients that some people prefer to avoid.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of sugar and corn syrup. This will provide some additional nutrients and antioxidants.
Reduce the amount of sweetener used in the recipe to lower the overall sugar content.
Experiment with natural food coloring alternatives, such as activated charcoal or black sesame paste, to achieve the desired black color without relying on artificial dyes.
Incorporate dark chocolate into the coating for added flavor and potential health benefits, such as antioxidants and minerals.
Serve the candy apples in smaller portions to encourage mindful indulgence and limit the intake of added sugars.
Pair the dessert with a variety of fresh fruits to increase the nutritional value and fiber content of the overall dish.

Editor's Opinion on Blackout Candy Apples Recipe

This recipe for blackout candy apples is a fun and unique twist on the classic candy apple. The addition of black food coloring and cinnamon flavoring gives these apples a mysterious and delicious appeal. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it a great recipe for both experienced and novice cooks. The use of skewers or striped straws adds a playful touch, making these apples perfect for Halloween or any themed party. Overall, this recipe is a creative and exciting way to elevate the traditional candy apple.

Enhance Your Blackout Candy Apples Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic, creating a rich and savory side dish that pairs perfectly with the sweet and crunchy candy apples.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Juicy pineapple chunks grilled to perfection, adding a tropical and refreshing element to complement the bold flavors of the candy apples.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Tender Brussels sprouts coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, providing a balance of flavors and textures to accompany the indulgent candy apples.

Similar Recipes to Blackout Candy Apples

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Citrus Glazed Salmon: Marinate salmon fillets in a zesty citrus glaze before grilling or baking. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors will make this dish a hit with your family.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mango, coconut milk, and chia seeds to create a creamy and refreshing pudding. Top with fresh berries and shredded coconut for a delightful dessert or snack.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Blackout Candy Apples

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious blend of cheeses, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy and flavorful spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. This classic appetizer is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: As a culinary chef, I love to create a mouthwatering grilled salmon dish that is bursting with flavor. The combination of herbs and spices creates a perfect balance that complements the natural taste of the salmon. The dish is not only delicious but also a healthy option for a main course.

Beef Stroganoff: One of my favorite main courses to prepare is a rich and creamy beef stroganoff. The tender beef, savory mushrooms, and tangy sour cream come together to create a comforting and satisfying dish. It's a classic recipe that never fails to impress and is perfect for a cozy night in.

Why trust this Blackout Candy Apples Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with candy apples. The precise instructions ensure a flawless outcome, while the use of cinnamon flavoring adds a unique twist. The careful selection of apples and the incorporation of black paste food color promise an enticing visual appeal. The thorough review process by our culinary experts ensures that only the finest recipes make it to our platform, offering users a trustworthy and enjoyable cooking experience.

Share your thoughts on this Blackout Candy Apples Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how your batch turned out!

FAQ:

How can I prevent the candy coating from becoming too hard or sticky?

To prevent the candy coating from becoming too hard or sticky, it's important to cook the sugar mixture to the correct temperature. Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit, or test it by dropping a small amount into cold water to check for the hard crack stage. Additionally, make sure to dip the apples quickly to achieve a thin, even coating.

Can I use a different color for the candy coating?

Yes, you can customize the color of the candy coating to your preference. Simply substitute the black paste food color with another color of your choice. Keep in mind that the amount of food coloring may need to be adjusted based on the desired color intensity.

How far in advance can I make these candy apples?

These candy apples are best made on the day you plan to serve them to ensure the candy coating is fresh and crisp. However, you can prepare the apples a few hours in advance and store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their quality.

Can I use this recipe for smaller or larger quantities of apples?

Yes, you can adjust the quantities of the ingredients based on the number of apples you plan to coat. Simply maintain the ratio of the ingredients and adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the desired candy coating consistency.

What can I do if I don't have a candy thermometer?

If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can perform a cold water test to check the candy coating's readiness. Simply drop a small amount of the sugar mixture into cold water, and if it separates into hard, brittle threads, it has reached the hard crack stage and is ready for coating the apples.