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Apple Candy Recipe (Jolly Rancher Style)
Dolce Flav
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Oil Soluble Apple Flavoring
Author:
Dolce Flav
Servings
25
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
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
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2 cups granulated sugar
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2/3 cup light corn syrup
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1/2 cup water
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1 teaspoon apple extract
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5–10 drops green food coloring
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Optional: sanding sugar for coating
Directions
Prepare Molds: Lightly grease candy molds or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
Boil Candy: Bring mixture to a boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F (149°C) on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage).
Add Flavor and Color: Remove from heat and quickly stir in apple extract and green food coloring.
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.
Optional Coating: Dust with sanding sugar for a sparkly finish if desired.
Cool Completely: Let candies harden at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
Store: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Recipe Note
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make lollipops with this recipe?
Yes — insert sticks into molds before the candy sets.
2. Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes — reduce sugar slightly or add a pinch of citric acid for a tart kick.
3. Can I make sugar-free candy?
Yes — use a sugar substitute suitable for candy-making, though texture may vary.
4. Can I use fresh apple juice instead of extract?
No — fresh juice has too much water and affects candy texture. Use extract for concentrated flavor.
5. How do I prevent candy from sticking together?
Use lightly greased molds or parchment paper and store in a dry, airtight container.
6. Can I make multi-colored candy?
Yes — pour different colored batches side by side and swirl gently before cooling.
7. Can I melt and reshape leftover candy?
Yes — reheat gently over low heat and pour into molds again.
8. How do I make it more tart, like sour candies?
Dust with a mixture of citric acid and sugar once slightly cooled.
9. Can I color it naturally?
Yes — spinach juice or matcha powder can add a green tint, but may slightly alter taste.
10. How long does homemade candy last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 2 weeks at room temperature.