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If you’re looking to bring a burst of color and sweetness to your next gathering, Rainbow Candy Apples are the ultimate showstopper. These glossy, jewel-toned apples look like something out of a storybook, each one coated in a shiny shell of vibrant candy. The satisfying crack when you bite into one gives way to the juicy crispness of a fresh apple, making them as fun to eat as they are to look at.

Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want a bit of whimsy on the dessert table, these candy apples are a delightful way to turn a classic treat into something magical. Whether you’re entertaining kids or impressing adults, their bold colors and nostalgic sweetness are always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Rainbow Candy Apples Recipe

This recipe combines simplicity with a spectacular result. The candy coating requires just a few basic ingredients, but once you add food coloring, the transformation is stunning. It’s an ideal project for beginners or for baking with kids since the steps are easy to follow and the payoff is instant joy.

Plus, Rainbow Candy Apples are endlessly customizable. You can go with classic red or make each apple a different color of the rainbow. They also make fantastic party favors when wrapped in cellophane and tied with ribbon.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

For the best results, choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith. Their crisp texture contrasts beautifully with the hard candy shell, and the tartness balances the sweetness of the coating. If you prefer something milder, Gala or Fuji apples also work well, though they’re a bit softer.

Ingredients for the Rainbow Candy Apples

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Just a few pantry staples and a little patience yield stunning results. Be sure to prep your apples and workspace ahead of time because once the sugar hits the right temperature, you’ll need to move quickly.

• Apples: Firm apples like Granny Smith give a crisp bite and tart balance to the sweet coating.
• Granulated Sugar: The base of the candy shell, it caramelizes to form that hard, glassy finish.
• Light Corn Syrup: Helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing and ensures a smooth texture.
• Water: Needed to dissolve the sugar evenly during the cooking process.
• Food Coloring: Gel food colors work best for bold, vibrant hues.
• Flavor Extract (optional): Add a drop of vanilla or cinnamon extract for a flavor twist.

How To Make the Rainbow Candy Apples

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Wash and thoroughly dry your apples to remove the waxy coating, which can interfere with the candy sticking. Insert sturdy wooden sticks into the tops of the apples.

Step 2: Make the Candy Coating

In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Once it starts boiling, stop stirring and let the mixture reach 300°F (hard crack stage) using a candy thermometer.

Step 3: Add the Color

Once the mixture hits the right temperature, remove it from the heat and stir in your chosen food coloring and optional flavoring. Work quickly here, as the candy starts to set fast.

Step 4: Dip the Apples

Tilt your saucepan slightly and dip each apple into the candy, swirling to coat completely. Let excess drip off, then place on a parchment-lined tray to set.

Step 5: Let Them Cool

Allow apples to cool completely at room temperature until the candy shell hardens. Do not refrigerate, or the coating may become sticky.

Serving and Storing Rainbow Candy Apples

Rainbow Candy Apples are best enjoyed the day they’re made, when the shell is crisp and glossy. That said, they can be made a day ahead and stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid humid environments or the refrigerator, which can cause the coating to sweat.

This recipe makes about 6 candy apples, perfect for a small party or as a fun kitchen activity with kids. Wrap leftovers in parchment and keep them in a covered container for up to 2 days.

What to Serve With Rainbow Candy Apples?

Hot Chocolate or Apple Cider

The warmth and spice of these drinks pair wonderfully with the tart sweetness of the apples.

Popcorn Mixes

Balance the sticky-sweet apples with salty, buttery popcorn or caramel corn for a fun snack table.

Mini Cupcakes

A dessert table becomes instantly festive with the mix of rainbow candy apples and bite-sized cupcakes.

Fruit Skewers

Stick with the colorful theme and offer fresh fruit skewers to lighten up the dessert spread.

Ice Cream Cups

Serve with little scoops of vanilla or birthday cake ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Marshmallow Pops

Dip marshmallows in colored chocolate and sprinkles for another kid-friendly option.

Chocolate-Covered Pretzels

The sweet and salty crunch is a fun contrast to the hard candy shell.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Colorful Twist?

If you love these Rainbow Candy Apples, don’t miss these other vibrant treats from Janet Dishes:

• Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies for a warm cinnamon-sugar finish.
• Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake Rolls with layers of fruity indulgence.
• Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes packed with gooey marshmallow centers.
• Lemon Truffles Recipe that brighten up any dessert platter.
• Frozen Banana Yogurt Pops for a cooler, lighter treat.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know how your Rainbow Candy Apples turned out! Did you go classic red or create a full spectrum of colors? Share your tips and variations in the comments.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and colorful desserts on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and find your next must-try sweet!

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