Description

Have you ever wondered how to turn a classic candy apple into a dazzling red, white, and blue showstopper? These Patriotic Candy Apples are the answer! Coated in creamy white chocolate, sprinkled with festive colors, and drizzled with blue, they’re perfect for 4th of July, Memorial Day, or any patriotic celebration.

Ingredients

Scale

A batch of Patriotic Candy Apples needs just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for 6 apples:

Apples:
- 6 Granny Smith apples, washed, dried, wax removed
- Why it matters: Granny Smith’s tart flavor balances the sweet chocolate, and their firm texture holds up well.
- Substitutions: Use Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter apple. Any firm apple works.
Coating:
- 10 oz. white chocolate morsels
- Why it matters: White chocolate creates a creamy, sweet coating that’s easy to color and decorate.
- Substitutions: Use white candy melts for faster setting or milk chocolate for a richer flavor. Dairy-free chocolate works for vegan options.
Decorations:
- 1 tbsp patriotic sprinkles (red, white, and blue)
- 1-2 drops blue food gel
- Why it matters: Sprinkles add festive flair, and blue gel creates a patriotic drizzle.
- Substitutions: Use red and blue M&Ms, colored sugar, or edible glitter. Natural blue food coloring (like spirulina) works for a chemical-free option.
Equipment:
- 6 wooden sticks (like popsicle sticks or skewers)
- Why it matters: Sticks make dipping and eating easy.
- Substitutions: Use sturdy plastic straws for a fun twist.

Tip: Remove apple wax with warm water and a scrub, then dry thoroughly to ensure chocolate sticks. Even a drop of water can ruin the chocolate’s texture!

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Wash 6 Granny Smith apples under warm water, scrubbing gently to remove wax. Dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
Insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple, pushing it halfway in for a secure hold.
- Tip: Pat apples dry with paper towels to ensure no water remains, as it can make the chocolate seize.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler over low heat, melt 10 oz. white chocolate morsels, stirring until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have a double boiler, use a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water (don’t let the bowl touch the water).
- Tip: Stir constantly and keep heat low to avoid burning. If chocolate is too thick, add a teaspoon of vegetable oil for smoothness.

Step 3: Dip the Apples

Dip each apple into the melted white chocolate, turning to coat evenly. Use a fork to spread chocolate near the stem area for full coverage.
Place each dipped apple on a wax paper-lined baking sheet.
- Tip: Let excess chocolate drip off before placing on wax paper. Work quickly to keep chocolate smooth.

Step 4: Decorate with Sprinkles

While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle 1 tbsp patriotic sprinkles over each apple. Focus on even coverage for a festive look.
- Tip: Sprinkle after each apple is dipped, as white chocolate can set fast. Have sprinkles ready in a small bowl for quick access.

Step 5: Add Blue Drizzle

Add 1-2 drops of blue food gel to the remaining melted chocolate and stir well.
Pour the blue chocolate into a small piping bag or zip-top bag with a tiny corner snipped off.
Drizzle the blue chocolate over each apple in a zigzag or swirl pattern.
- Tip: Practice drizzling on wax paper first for a steady hand. Keep the drizzle light for a pretty effect.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Place the baking sheet with apples in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the chocolate harden completely.
Serve on a platter or wrap individually for gifting.
- Tip: Check that chocolate is fully set before moving to avoid smudging.