Jolly Rancher Candy Apples Recipe
If you’re looking to dazzle your family or guests with a sweet treat that turns childhood nostalgia into a colorful masterpiece, Jolly Rancher Candy Apples absolutely steal the show! Crisp apples wrapped in a glassy, jewel-toned shell of iconic Jolly Rancher flavors make this dessert as fun to make as it is to eat. Each bite is a burst of tart, juicy apple surrounded by that unmistakable, tangy candy crunch, bringing together classic fairground whimsy with a playful homemade twist. Whether it’s for a party, a festive gift, or just a lively afternoon project, these Jolly Rancher Candy Apples deliver on wow-factor, flavor, and a whole lot of smiles.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Ingredients:
- 6 small apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 2 (7 oz) bags of Jolly Rancher hard candies (any flavor or mix)
- 6 wooden sticks or skewers
- Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper for setting
How to Make Jolly Rancher Candy Apples
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Start by thoroughly washing and drying your apples. Waxy coatings can prevent the candy from sticking, so take a minute to scrub them well. Once dry, firmly insert a wooden stick or skewer into the center of each apple—this gives you the perfect handle for dipping later on.
Step 2: Set Up Your Workspace
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray. This little step will make sure your freshly-dipped Jolly Rancher Candy Apples can set without sticking or losing any precious candy shell.
Step 3: Melt the Jolly Ranchers
Unwrap all your chosen Jolly Rancher hard candies and place them in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally as the candies melt smoothly, watching the transformation from gems to glossy liquid (this takes about 10–12 minutes). The aroma alone will make your kitchen smell like a candy wonderland!
Step 4: Dip the Apples
Working quickly (but carefully!), dip each apple into the melted candy. Tilt the pan as needed to help coat the apples evenly, then let the extra candy drip off. Place each coated apple directly onto the prepared baking sheet to set. If you’re feeling creative, try using different colored candies for each apple or even dipping twice for layered colors—just let the first layer cool completely before the next dip!
Step 5: Let Them Set
Leave your Jolly Rancher Candy Apples to cool and harden at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. Watch as the glossy coating sets to a shiny, glass-like shell—once they’re completely cool, they’re ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Jolly Rancher Candy Apples
Garnishes
A sprinkle of colored sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate right before the candy sets is a gorgeous (and tasty) finishing touch. You could also press in a little edible glitter or crushed up Jolly Ranchers for extra sparkle and crunch.
Side Dishes
Since Jolly Rancher Candy Apples pack big fruit punch flavor and robust sweetness, pair them with something creamy and mild like vanilla ice cream or a simple whipped cream. For parties, serve them alongside light finger foods, like cheese cubes, to balance the sweet with hints of savory.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your apples in a rainbow display on a cake stand, or wrap each in clear cellophane tied with a colorful ribbon for party favors. Want even more fun? Individually label each apple with the Jolly Rancher flavor for a fruity guessing game!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Jolly Rancher Candy Apples are best enjoyed within two days. Store them uncovered or loosely tented at room temperature—covering them tightly can make the candy shell weep or get sticky.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for these apples, as the candy shell tends to crack or become sticky once thawed. For best results, stick to storing at room temperature and enjoy them at their glossy best!
Reheating
Since these apples are all about that crisp, shattering shell, reheating isn’t needed and may make them tacky. If your home is chilly and the shell feels extra hard, just let the apples sit at room temp for a few minutes before biting in.
FAQs
Can I use any type Dessert
Granny Smith apples are a classic choice thanks to their tartness, but any small, firm apple will work. Just make sure the skins are clean and dry, and opt for apples that aren’t too large to keep the candy-to-fruit ratio just right.
What if I don’t have a heavy-bottomed saucepan?
Choose your thickest pan to help the candies melt evenly, and keep the heat low so the sugar doesn’t burn. If you notice hot spots, stir more frequently and keep a watchful eye as the Jolly Ranchers liquefy.
How do I get a super smooth candy shell?
Let the melted candy settle for a moment before dipping to help air bubbles rise and pop. Also, remember to rotate the apple while dipping, and let excess candy drip off for an even, glossy finish.
Can I double-dip for more color?
Absolutely! Let the first layer of candy set completely, then gently dip again in a different Jolly Rancher color for a fun, eye-catching effect. It helps to reheat the melted candy if it thickens between dips.
Are Jolly Rancher Candy Apples gluten free?
Jolly Rancher candies and plain apples are gluten free, and wooden sticks/parchment paper don’t add gluten either. If you’re adding any toppings or garnishes, just double check that those are safe as well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably cheerful about diving into a batch of homemade Jolly Rancher Candy Apples. If you’ve never tried making them, I promise it’s a tasty adventure worth taking—and you’ll love the rewarding crunch and flavor in every bite. Go ahead, gather your favorite flavors and get ready to impress with an easy, dazzling treat!
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Jolly Rancher Candy Apples Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 candy apples 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Jolly Rancher Candy Apples are a delightful twist on the classic fall treat. Crunchy apples are coated in a colorful, sweet hard candy shell, making them a fun and festive dessert perfect for Halloween or any autumn gathering.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 6 small apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 2 (7 oz) bags of Jolly Rancher hard candies (any flavor or mix)
- 6 wooden sticks or skewers
- Nonstick cooking spray or parchment paper for setting
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Wash and dry the apples thoroughly, removing any waxy coating. Insert a wooden stick firmly into the center of each apple.
- Melt the Jolly Ranchers: Line a baking sheet and melt the Jolly Ranchers in a saucepan until smooth.
- Dip the Apples: Dip each apple into the melted candy, coating evenly. Let excess drip off and set on the baking sheet.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the candy apples to cool and harden for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For colorful variations, try using different Jolly Rancher flavors or layering colors.
- Ensure apples are completely dry before dipping to ensure candy coating adherence.
- Store candy apples at room temperature for up to 2 days, uncovered or loosely tented.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apple
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
