Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup water; 2 large apples (any variety you prefer); 1/2 cup corn syrup (optional for extra gloss); Parchment paper (for cooling)

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

I love making Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings because they perfectly capture the essence of fall with their delightful flavors and vibrant colors. The sweet crunch of the apple paired with the warm notes of cinnamon and sugar creates a treat that's both nostalgic and irresistible. It takes just a little time to prepare, but every bite is worth the effort. We often make these for gatherings or as a simple dessert to enjoy at home, and each time they vanish in minutes!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T13:02:28.553Z

When I first tried making Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple and fun the process was. The key is to slice the apples thinly, allowing them to absorb the candy coating beautifully. I used a combination of granulated sugar and cinnamon to enhance the flavors, and the result was nothing short of spectacular!

One detail that truly elevates this recipe is letting the coated rings cool on parchment paper. This step prevents the rings from sticking together and maintains their perfect shape. It’s a small tip that makes a big difference in presentation, especially if you’re sharing them with friends!

Why You'll Love These Apple Rings
Crispy outside with a caramelized sugar coating
Perfect balance of sweet and spicy cinnamon flavor
A fun and festive treat that's easy to share

Choosing the Right Apples

Selecting the right variety of apple is essential for achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in your Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings. Typically, I recommend using crisp apples like Granny Smith for their tartness, or Fuji and Honeycrisp for a sweet treat. Avoid softer varieties such as Red Delicious, as they tend to become mushy when cooked. Aim for firm, unbruised apples to ensure a satisfying crunch in every bite.

No matter what variety you choose, ensure that the apples are fresh and firm. If they feel soft when you press on them, they may not maintain their structure during the candying process. Additionally, if you prefer a particular flavor profile, keep in mind that the sweetness of the apple will influence the overall taste of the candy coating.

Perfecting the Candy Coating

The candy coating is where the magic happens in these apple rings. To achieve the ideal consistency, make sure to heat the sugar, cinnamon, and water mixture over medium heat instead of high. Cooking too quickly can cause the sugar to crystallize; you want a glossy, bubbling mixture without burning. Stir gently and continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture combines into a smooth, syrupy texture that's ready for dipping.

For the best results, dip the apple slices immediately after the syrup reaches that perfect bubbling stage. This will allow the coating to bond properly with the apple and create a reliable snap when you take a bite. If the syrup starts to harden before you finish coating all the rings, simply return it to the heat and stir until it becomes liquid again.

Serving and Storing Your Candy Apple Rings

Once your Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings have cooled and hardened, they can be served immediately or stored for later enjoyment. If you're not consuming them right away, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating these treats, as moisture can cause the candy coating to become sticky. Properly stored, they should last for about 1-2 days, although I doubt they’ll last that long!

For a fun twist, consider mixing in a little nutmeg or clove along with your cinnamon for added warmth and complexity in flavor. These apple rings also make a wonderful topping for vanilla ice cream or can be crumbled over yogurt for a delicious breakfast or snack. Get creative with this recipe and enjoy the myriad of ways to incorporate these festive treats into your fall gatherings!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Rings

For the Candy Coating

1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup water

For the Apple Rings

2 large apples (any variety you prefer)
1/2 cup corn syrup (optional for extra gloss)
Parchment paper (for cooling)

How to Prepare the Ingredients

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Slice the apples into rings, removing the cores, and ensure they are about 1/4 inch thick for even coating.

Make the Candy Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cinnamon, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture reaches a bubbling stage.

Coat the Apple Rings

Dip each apple ring into the candy mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow any excess to drip off before placing them on parchment paper.

Cool and Serve

Let the coated apple rings cool completely on the parchment paper. Serve them at room temperature and enjoy!

Enjoy Your Treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a few drops of vanilla extract to the candy mixture as it cooks. This gives the apple rings a warm, inviting aroma.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute a portion of the granulated sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol. Keep in mind that these substitutes may impart a different texture or flavor, so start by testing small batches. Additionally, for a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar-free syrup for candying. Just be aware that the final product may not have the same glossy finish.

In lieu of corn syrup, which adds glossiness and helps prevent crystallization of the sugar mixture, you can use light agave syrup or honey. These alternatives will slightly alter the flavor but can enhance the overall taste profile by introducing their unique sweetness.

Flavor Variations

To add a festive twist, consider incorporating chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the candy mixture before coating the apple rings. This not only adds texture but also complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully. You could also sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the coated apple rings for a sweet and salty combination that's truly irresistible.

For a different spice profile, try adding a dash of allspice or ginger to the cinnamon mixture for an extra kick. Each of these spices can enhance the warmth and complex flavor, providing a new twist on the traditional cinnamon sugar combination that makes these candy apple rings so special.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your candy coating isn't adhering properly to the apple rings, there are two common culprits to consider. First, check if the apples were adequately dried after being sliced, as excess moisture can prevent the candy from sticking. Also, ensure you’ve dipped the apples while the candy mixture is still hot and bubbly for the best adherence.

In case the sugar mixture crystallizes while heating, it usually indicates that the heat was too high or that it was stirred too much after reaching the boiling point. If this happens, simply add a few drops of water, return to low heat, and stir gently until it melts back to a smooth consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! Any variety of apple works, but tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness of the candy nicely.

→ How should I store leftover apple rings?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They are best enjoyed fresh, but can last a day or two.

→ Can I make these apple rings in advance?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours ahead of time. Just keep them in a cool environment to maintain their crunch.

→ What can I serve with these apple rings?

They pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or can be drizzled with caramel sauce for an indulgent treat!