Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup water; Wooden skewers or sticks

Highlighted under: Cozy Desserts

I absolutely love making Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings! The combination of crisp apples coated in a sweet, cinnamon-spiced glaze is simply irresistible. As autumn rolls in, this recipe brings a burst of seasonal flavor that warms my heart and brightens my gatherings. It's the perfect snack for fall parties or an indulgent treat while watching movies at home. I can't help but enjoy the delightful crunch and the rich aroma that fills my kitchen when preparing these tasty rings.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T11:18:28.235Z

Creating these Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings was a delightful experience! I tried different varieties of apples and found that tart apples like Granny Smith worked exceptionally well. The balance of sweetness and tartness was perfect, making each bite irresistible. The secret, I discovered, was to dip the rings in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they’re still warm, ensuring the sugar adheres beautifully.

As I perfected the technique, I learned that letting the sugar mixture rest briefly after mixing helps the flavors to meld. The cinnamon aroma wafts through my kitchen, tempting everyone nearby. These treats are not just a recipe; they are a delicious memory in the making!

Why You'll Love These Rings
Crispy texture combined with a sweet, cinnamon coating
Simple yet impressive, perfect for sharing
Great way to use fresh, seasonal apples

Mastering the Coating Technique

The key to achieving a perfect candy coating on your apple rings lies in the syrup's temperature. Aim for a rolling boil, which typically occurs at around 240°F (115°C). This ensures that the sugar crystallizes properly when cooled. I recommend using a candy thermometer for accurate readings, as the consistency of the syrup will directly affect the final glaze's thickness and crunchiness.

When you dip the apple rings, a swift motion is crucial. Submerging them fully into the syrup for just a moment helps achieve an even coating. Hold them vertically above the saucepan to let any excess syrup drip back before placing them on the baking sheet. This prevents pooling and ensures a neat finish.

Choosing the Perfect Apple

Granny Smith apples are a fantastic choice due to their tartness, which balances well with the sweetness of the glaze. However, other varieties such as Honeycrisp or Fuji can also work beautifully, offering different textures and levels of sweetness. If you prefer a sweeter apple, consider reducing the sugar in the syrup slightly to maintain a balanced flavor.

For an added twist, try using a combination of apples. Mixing tart and sweet apples not only enhances the flavor profile but also creates visual appeal with varied colors. Just ensure that the apples are firm and fresh for the best texture; bruised or overly soft apples may yield a soggy result.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once prepared, it's best to enjoy the Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings fresh, as they maintain their crisp texture. If you need to store them, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. Avoid refrigerating, as this can make the coating sticky. If you have leftovers, consider reheating them in a warm oven for a few minutes to re-crisp the coating.

These candy apple rings make a delightful addition to any autumn gathering. Serve them on a platter drizzled with caramel sauce or sprinkled with chopped nuts for added texture. For a fun twist, you can also offer chocolate dipping sauces, allowing guests to customize their apple rings. Pairing them with a warm spiced cider enhances the seasonal experience.

Ingredients

For the Candy Apple Rings

2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup water
Wooden skewers or sticks

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Core and slice the apples into rings, about 1/2 inch thick. Insert a wooden skewer through the center of each apple ring.

Make the Cinnamon Sugar Syrup

In a saucepan, combine sugar, cinnamon, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is boiling.

Coat the Apple Rings

Dip each apple ring into the hot syrup, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Let Them Cool

Sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar on top of the coated apple rings before letting them cool completely on the baking sheet.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, let the coated apple rings cool in the refrigerator for 10 minutes. You can also experiment with different types of sugar, like brown sugar, for a deeper flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your candy coating isn't following the apple rings properly, it may be too cool. Try reheating the syrup slightly while stirring to regain its viscosity. Conversely, if it’s too hot, it can become too thick, leading to a clumpy texture. Aim for a temperature consistency of around 240°F during the dipping process for the best results.

Should the syrup crystallize prematurely, combine it with a splash of water and reheat gently. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves again. Monitoring your syrup closely will help prevent crystallization, ensuring a smooth and glossy candy coating.

Variations to Try

Experimenting with spices can elevate your Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings. For instance, adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar can introduce a warm twist. Additionally, drizzle some melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled apple rings for a decadent touch, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

For a healthier option, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like erythritol. This will slightly alter the flavor profile, but the apple rings will still be deliciously sweet and appealing. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times based on the type of sweetener you’re using.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, but tart apples like Granny Smith work best for a good balance of flavors.

→ How long can I store the candy apple rings?

These are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

→ What can I serve with the candy apple rings?

They pair wonderfully with caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

→ Can I add other spices to the recipe?

Absolutely! Nutmeg or allspice could complement the cinnamon beautifully.