Go Back

Poison Toffee Apples

Poison Toffee Apples are candied apples coated with a glossy, black-hued toffee shell that forms a crunchy exterior. The toffee is chewy and buttery, enveloping a crisp apple core for a contrasting texture. The vibrant black coating creates a striking visual effect suited for Halloween celebrations.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Halloween
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium-sized apples preferably tart apples like Granny Smith
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into small pieces for easier melting
  • 2 teaspoons black gel food coloring
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vinegar white vinegar optional, for color stabilization
  • 4 lollipop sticks or skewers for inserting into apples

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment or silicone mat
  • Cooking thermometer
  • Lollipop sticks or skewers
  • Gloves (optional, for handling hot sugar)

Method
 

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the apples, removing stems and inserting a lollipop stick into the top of each. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and set aside.
  2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture begins to boil.
  3. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and cook without stirring until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). Watch carefully to prevent overcooking or burning.
  4. Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the butter until melted. Then, add the black gel food coloring and a splash of vinegar, stirring until the mixture is evenly colored and smooth.
  5. Carefully dip each apple into the hot toffee, tilting the pan slightly if needed. Use a spoon to help coat the apple evenly with a glossy black shell, then lift out and allow excess to drip off.
  6. Place the coated apple back onto the parchment-lined sheet and repeat with all the apples. Let them cool and harden at room temperature for at least 15 minutes until the coating is set.
  7. Once the toffee coating is firm and shiny, children or Halloween party guests can enjoy these striking Poison Toffee Apples, offering a crunchy exterior that crackles with each bite to reveal the juicy apple inside.

Notes

Be cautious when handling hot sugar; wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. For a more intense black color, add additional food coloring or multiple layers of coating.