Apple Candy Recipe (Jolly Rancher Style)

Apple Candy Recipe (Jolly Rancher Style)

Dolce Flav

Servings

25

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Category

Oil Soluble Apple Flavoring

This Apple Hard Candy recipe replicates the bright, crisp flavor of Jolly Ranchers in a homemade version. Using apple extract and a simple sugar-corn syrup base, these candies are cooked to the perfect hard crack stage, producing glossy, sweet, and intensely flavored apple treats. Perfect for candy gifts, parties, or just enjoying a homemade classic, these candies are quick to make and can be poured into molds or cut into fun bite-sized pieces. Optional green food coloring gives them a vibrant, candy-apple appearance.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon apple extract
  • 5–10 drops green food coloring
  • Optional: sanding sugar for coating

Directions

  1. Prepare Molds: Lightly grease candy molds or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.

  2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently over medium heat until sugar dissolves.

  3. Boil Candy: Bring mixture to a boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F (149°C) on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage).

  4. Add Flavor and Color: Remove from heat and quickly stir in apple extract and green food coloring.

  5. Pour Candy: Pour hot candy into prepared molds or onto the lined sheet. Allow to cool slightly and cut into strips or break into pieces if using a sheet.

  6. Optional Coating: Dust with sanding sugar for a sparkly finish if desired.

  7. Cool Completely: Let candies harden at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.

  8. Store: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.