These Black Poison Swirl Candy Apples are the perfect spooky-sweet treat for Halloween or gothic-themed parties. Crisp apples are coated in a glossy, dark candy shell with eerie swirling patterns—deliciously dramatic and surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients:
6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
2 cups granulated sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
¾ cup water
½ teaspoon black gel food coloring
¼ teaspoon purple or red gel food coloring (for swirl effect)
Candy thermometer
Wooden sticks or skewers
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Cooking spray (for parchment)
Directions:
Prepare the apples:
Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Remove stems and insert wooden sticks into the top center of each. Set aside on parchment or silicone mat sprayed lightly with cooking spray.
Make the candy coating:
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
Increase heat and boil without stirring until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
Add the colors:
Remove from heat and quickly stir in black gel food coloring. For a swirl effect, add a few drops of red or purple food coloring and lightly swirl with a toothpick—do not fully mix.
Dip the apples:
Tilt the pot and carefully dip each apple, swirling to coat. Let excess drip off, then place on the prepared surface to cool and harden.
Cool completely:
Allow the candy coating to harden fully at room temperature before serving.
Safety Note: The sugar mixture is extremely hot—use caution when working with it.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 candy apples