Description
Celebrate Memorial Day with delicious picnic food that will impress your friends and family. From vibrant salads to grilled meats, this menu features a variety of dishes that are perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 medium apples, firm variety – Granny Smith or Fuji recommended
- 2 cups granulated white sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon red gel food coloring
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon extract (optional)
- 6 wooden candy apple sticks
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Instructions
- Set up your workspace: line a baking sheet with parchment paper and coat with non-stick spray. Prepare your apples with sticks in place.
- Remove wax from apples by dipping them in boiling water for 5 seconds, then scrub dry. Insert sticks firmly into the stem end of each apple.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently until sugar is moistened. Attach a candy thermometer to the pan.
- Heat the mixture over medium-high until it reaches a rolling boil, avoiding stirring. Use a wet brush to clean sides of the pan.
- Boil until the thermometer reads 300°F. This takes about 15-20 minutes. Do not leave unattended in the last 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat at 300°F, stir in food coloring and cinnamon extract. Wait 1-2 minutes for bubbles to settle.
- Tilt the pan and dip each apple, letting excess drip off for 3-4 seconds. Place on the prepared baking sheet to set for at least 20 minutes.
Notes
- Ensure syrup reaches 300°F for a proper hard coating.
- Wait for bubbles to settle before dipping apples to avoid a textured coating.
- Store candy apples at room temperature, uncovered for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 candy apple
- Calories: 271
- Sugar: 65
- Sodium: 3
- Fat: 1
- Saturated Fat: 0
- Unsaturated Fat: 1
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 71
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 1
- Cholesterol: 0
Keywords: Memorial Day picnic food, candy apple recipe, easy picnic recipes, outdoor gathering food, summer picnic ideas