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Poison Apples Recipe

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These spooky poison apples are dipped in glossy black caramel and perfect for Halloween parties! A chilling twist on classic candy apples that’s fun, festive, and surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients

Nonstick cooking spray

2 cups granulated sugar

½ cup corn syrup

¾ cup water

¾ tsp black gel food coloring (or substitute with purple or red/blue mix)

12 small apples (or 6 medium), washed and dried

12 wooden candy apple sticks

Instructions

Prep Apples:
Remove apple stems and insert a wooden stick about ½-inch into the top of each apple.

Prep Baking Tray:
Line a large tray with parchment paper and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Make Caramel:
In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and food coloring. Stir briefly just to help dissolve the sugar.

Heat to Hard-Crack Stage:
Heat over medium to medium-high heat until the mixture reaches 290°F (hard-crack stage) on a candy thermometer. Do not stir again after the initial mix to prevent crystallization.

Dip Apples:
Working quickly and carefully, dip each apple into the caramel, letting excess drip off. Place on the prepared tray.

Cool & Serve:
Let apples cool completely. Serve the same day for best results.

Notes

Best Apples to Use: Granny Smith apples are a great choice for their tart flavor and green color contrast with the black coating.

Remove Wax Coating: To help caramel stick, soak apples in a mixture of vinegar, baking soda, and water for 20 minutes. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

Food Coloring Options: Use black gel for deep color. Purple or a red-blue combo works too.

Avoid Bubbles: Stir briefly before dipping to release excess air if you want a smooth finish.

Crystallization Tip: Avoid stirring while the caramel cooks. If needed, brush down the pot sides with water.

Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored at room temp for 1 night. Texture may change after that.