What Is A Candy Apple?

What Is a Candy Apple?

If you've ever attended a fair or carnival, you've likely come across the delightful treat known as a candy apple. These sweet and crunchy confections are a popular indulgence, especially during the fall season. But what exactly is a candy apple, and what makes it so special? Let's delve into the delicious world of candy apples and uncover the secrets behind this beloved treat.

The Basics of Candy Apples

A candy apple is a type of confection that features a crisp, juicy apple coated in a layer of hard, glossy candy. The candy coating is typically made from a mixture of sugar, corn syrup, water, and food coloring, which is heated to a high temperature to create a smooth, shiny glaze. The coated apple is then left to cool and harden, resulting in a sweet and crunchy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the tartness of the apple.

The History of Candy Apples

The origins of the candy apple can be traced back to the early 20th century, when candied fruits and nuts were popular treats at fairs and circuses. However, the modern candy apple as we know it today is credited to a man named William W. Kolb, who was a veteran Newark candy maker. In 1908, Kolb was experimenting with red cinnamon candies for the Christmas season when he dipped some apples into the mixture, creating the first candy-coated apples. The idea quickly caught on, and candy apples became a staple at fall festivals and events.

Making Candy Apples at Home

While candy apples are readily available at fairs and specialty shops, they can also be made at home with a few simple ingredients and some patience. Here's a basic recipe for creating your own delicious candy apples:

Ingredients:

• 6 medium apples
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• Red food coloring
• Wooden skewers or sticks

Instructions:

1. Wash and dry the apples thoroughly, and insert a wooden skewer into the stem end of each apple.
2. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
3. Continue to cook the mixture, without stirring, until it reaches the hard crack stage (300°F) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in a few drops of red food coloring until the desired shade is achieved.
5. Working quickly, dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, tilting the saucepan to coat the apple evenly.
6. Allow the excess candy coating to drip off, and place the coated apples on a greased baking sheet to cool and harden.

Enjoying Candy Apples

Once the candy coating has set, you can indulge in the sweet and crunchy goodness of a homemade candy apple. The combination of the crisp apple and the sugary candy shell creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Candy apples are often enjoyed during the fall season, making them a festive and nostalgic treat for people of all ages.

In conclusion, candy apples are a delightful and nostalgic treat that have been enjoyed for generations. Whether you purchase them at a fair or make them at home, the sweet and crunchy allure of a candy apple is undeniable. So the next time you're craving a sweet indulgence, consider sinking your teeth into a delicious candy apple and savoring the magic of this timeless confection.