Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples Recipe Delight

Ah, the sweet, sunny days of summer! They remind me of lazy afternoons spent wandering through local farmer’s markets, inhaling the intoxicating aroma of fresh strawberries. There’s something about those vibrant red jewels that brings back memories of my childhood feasting on strawberry shortcake at family picnics. This nostalgic craving inspired me to create a delightful fusion treat: Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples!

These beauties combine the juiciness of fresh strawberries with the crunchy, sugary goodness of candy apples, topped with a fluffy, whipped cream-inspired finish. They are the perfect addition to any summer gathering or a cheerful treat for a Sunday picnic. Trust me, you’ll want to dive right in and devour these gems!

So, grab your apron, and let’s get to making these Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples that are sure to bring a smile to your face and brighten your day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Refreshing and flavorful – fresh strawberries burst with flavor!
• Fun twist on classic candy apples – a delicious upgrade!
• Perfect for parties – they look stunning on a platter!
• Kid-friendly – perfect for little hands to enjoy!

Ingredients

• 6 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Fuji recommended)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the whipped cream)
• Crushed graham crackers (for topping)
• Popsicle sticks or skewer sticks (for dipping)
• Optional: food coloring to enhance the candy coating

Note: Choose firm apples that can hold up well under the candy coating. Fresh strawberries add a juicy burst, while the crushed graham crackers mirror the shortcake texture. What’s not to love?

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s your simple guide to creating these Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples without a hitch:

1. Prep the apples: Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Stick a popsicle or skewer stick into the top of each apple (the stem side) until it is about halfway through. This will help you dip them later!
2. Make the candy coating: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Over medium heat, stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Allow it to boil until it reaches the hard crack stage (around 300°F or 149°C). If you have a candy thermometer, this is your best friend!
3. Color the candy (optional): If you want to give your candy a fun twist, add a few drops of food coloring to the boiling mixture before dipping your apples. Think of a vibrant pink for a more strawberry-themed treat!
4. Dip those apples: Once your candy coating is ready, remove it from the heat. Dip each apple quickly into the hot candy mixture, turning to coat thoroughly. Let the excess candy drip off before placing the coated apple on a parchment-lined baking sheet. (Watch out for hot sugar! It can be a bit sticky.)
5. Let them cool: Allow the coated apples to cool and harden. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. While they cool, let’s whip up that tasty topping.
6. Whip the cream: In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. This should take about 2-4 minutes. It will be fluffy and airy—just like a cloud of deliciousness!
7. Assemble the treat: Once your candy apples are set, pipe or dollop the whipped cream on top of each apple. Then, sprinkle generously with the crushed graham crackers to mimic the shortcake!
8. Finish with strawberries: Top each apple with a few diced strawberries for a fresh, fruity flavor that pairs beautifully with the candy coating and cream.
9. Enjoy! Serve these beauties as a delightful treat for family and friends. They are sure to turn heads and grab attention!

Pro Tips & Variations

Want to make your Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples even more exciting? Here are some fun variations and tips to consider:

• Switch up the fruit: Use different fruits such as Granny Smith apples for a tart kick or pears for a sweeter alternative.
• Add sprinkles: After piping the whipped cream, cover it in colorful sprinkles for a fun, celebratory look! Kids love it!
• Other toppings: Try crushed nuts or toasted coconut for additional crunch and flavor.
• Vegan option: Use coconut whipped cream instead of heavy cream and plant-based candy coating for a dairy-free version!

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples are fantastic on their own, but why not turn it into a delightful dessert table centerpiece? Serve them alongside fresh berries or a fruit salad for a refreshing touch. If you really want to impress, pair them with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or serve with a cup of coffee for the adults. Imagine biting into that sweet, crunchy goodness while sipping a perfectly brewed latte. Heaven!

Storage Tips

Leftover candy apples? Yes, please! Here’s how to store your creations without losing that irresistible crunch:

• Refrigeration: Store any uneaten apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This will help keep them fresh, though the candy coating might soften slightly.
• Freezing: While I’d recommend eating them fresh for the best texture, you can freeze the apples in an airtight container. They can last about a month. Just remember to leave off the whipped cream before freezing.
• Reheating: If you need to, let them thaw in the fridge, but I recommend enjoying them cold or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture!

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji are recommended for their crispness and flavor, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold the candy coating.

What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?

No worries! You can still make candy apples without a thermometer. Just observe the color of the sugar syrup as it boils. You want it to become a deep golden color. Drop a small amount into cold water to test; if it forms hard, brittle strands, you’re good to go!

How do I prevent the candy from crystallizing?

Great question! Make sure the pot is clean, as sugar can be finicky. Avoid stirring the mixture once it starts boiling, and you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice to help inhibit crystallization.

Can I use store-bought whipped cream instead?

Of course! If you’re short on time, store-bought whipped cream will work just fine. Just remember to grab the kind that is kept in the refrigerated section for better flavor!

Conclusion

And there you have it, my friends! Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples that not only look gorgeous but taste like a dream, too. I can just picture you serving these at your next summer gathering, and I hope they bring as much joy to your kitchen as they have to mine. I’d love to hear about your experiences or any fun variations you tried! Drop a comment below and let’s share in the deliciousness!

Happy baking!

Irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples Recipe Delight

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• Author: mery
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in our irresistible Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples recipe A delightful twist on a classic treat perfect for any occasion

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

6 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Fuji recommended)

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup light corn syrup

1/4 cup water

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup fresh strawberries, diced

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the whipped cream)

Crushed graham crackers (for topping)

Popsicle sticks or skewer sticks (for dipping)

Optional: food coloring to enhance the candy coating

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Instructions

Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Stick a popsicle or skewer stick into the top of each apple until it is about halfway through.

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Over medium heat, stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Bring to a boil without stirring until it reaches the hard crack stage (around 300°F or 149°C).

If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to the boiling mixture before dipping the apples.

Dip each apple quickly into the hot candy mixture, turning to coat thoroughly. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Allow the coated apples to cool and harden for about 15-20 minutes.

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip until stiff peaks form.

Once the candy apples are set, pipe or dollop the whipped cream on top of each apple and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers.

Top each apple with diced strawberries.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 calories
• Sugar: 24g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, candy apples, dessert recipe, summertime treat, party snack