Black Poison Candy Apples (Print)

Crisp apples with glossy black candy coating, delivering a dramatic, tart and sweet crunchy bite.

# Ingredients:

→ Apples

01 - 6 small to medium Granny Smith apples or other firm, tart apples, washed and thoroughly dried
02 - 6 sturdy wooden sticks or lollipop sticks

→ Candy Coating

03 - 2 cups granulated sugar
04 - 3/4 cup water
05 - 1/2 cup light corn syrup
06 - 1/2 teaspoon black gel food coloring
07 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (optional, for smoother finish)

# Directions:

01 - Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease. Insert a wooden stick into the stem end of each apple, pushing halfway through.
02 - In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, add sugar, water, corn syrup, and cream of tartar if using. Stir gently to combine.
03 - Place saucepan over medium heat and cook without stirring until mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer. Swirl pan gently to prevent hot spots.
04 - Remove from heat; quickly stir in vanilla extract and black gel food coloring until thoroughly blended and even in color.
05 - Tilt pan and carefully dip each apple in hot syrup, swirling to coat evenly. Allow excess candy to drip off, then place on the prepared baking sheet.
06 - Leave apples to cool at room temperature until candy shell hardens, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Perfect centerpiece for spooky gatherings
  • Delivers dramatic shine and delicious crunch
  • No special candy molds needed just pantry ingredients and some careful watching
  • Gluten free and vegetarian so everyone can enjoy
02 -
  • Naturally gluten-free so they suit most diets
  • You can add spices like cinnamon or chili for extra flavor
  • These apples are stunning as party favors or as edible decor
03 -
  • Always fully dry your apples or the candy will slide off. Use a fresh candy thermometer for best texture.
  • If the syrup bubbles up while dipping just pause and let it cool a bit before finishing the batch. Gloves are a lifesaver if you do not want stained hands for a week.