Red, shiny and oh-so-delicious. Candied or caramelized apples are one of the more classic treats of Halloween. But where did this tradition start? Apparently, it comes from one of the world’s most well-known and beloved fairy tales – Snow White and the Seven Dwarves! Remember that red, shiny poisoned apple that Snow White couldn’t resist? That's right – the story of caramelized apples started here – from the bewitched apple of the fairy tale! (We had no idea.)
How to caramelize apples
But let's get back to the kitchen to caramelize the apples at home – a fundamental step before you can even think about decorating them! We decided on medium-sized apples that aren’t too sweet (since we’ll be adding sugar, anyway). Fuji apples or red gala apples are perfect.
Next, we’ll need to wash the selected apples with water and baking soda. Then dry with paper towels. Remove the stems from each apple and pierce them with wooden sticks or skewers – anything that can support the full weight of the apple. Over medium heat, heat ¾ cup of water with 2 lb sugar in a saucepan. Once the sugar has melted almost completely, add 80g honey and cook until the caramel reaches 212°F(100°C). (Check the temperature with a cooking thermometer.) Then add an ingredient to add some color if desired – some red food coloring liquid or gel with a little flavor (e.g. vanilla extract, cinnamon and cloves). Continue cooking until it reaches 300°F (150°C). Once the caramel is ready, remove the pot from the heat and dip one apple at a time into it very carefully until the apple is either totally or partially covered. Before the caramel cools down, it’s time for decorations!
Another tasty way to serve apples this time of year? Dip them in melted dark chocolate (instead of the caramel) and then decorate! This way is even easier since all you have to do is heat up the chocolate in a bain-marie (or even in the microwave!). Then dip the apples in it. Before the chocolate solidifies, you have to decorate it, though!
Ideas for decorating caramel apples
Whether the apples are covered with caramel or chocolate, the decoration possibilities are endless! Make them even more delicious and pretty to look at with chopped nuts (peanuts, hazelnuts, cashews, walnuts) or slivered almonds. Alternatively, chocolate in all its forms (chips, chopped, melted) work very well to make different designs or nice little spiderwebs on the surface of the apples. Colorful sugar, small soft candies or small marshmallows are great, too! And if you want to make them even richer, add crumbled cookies or chocolate candies.