Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Bites

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 12 bites
Ingredients: 2 medium apples (any variety); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup water; Wooden skewers or sticks

Highlighted under: Sugar Rush Kitchen

I absolutely adore these Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Bites! The vibrant crunch of fresh apples coated in a delightful cinnamon sugar mix makes for a perfect sweet snack or party treat. I love how simple they are to make – you only need a few ingredients, and they come together in no time. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike. Trust me; you would want to keep this recipe handy for future gatherings!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T00:37:36.356Z

When I first made these Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Bites, I was looking for a fun and festive snack for a family gathering. I decided to combine the natural sweetness of apples with a warm cinnamon sugar coating, and it turned out to be a spectacular hit! People couldn't get enough of the sweet, crunchy goodness.

I found that using a mix of tart and sweet apples really allowed the flavors to shine. It’s also helpful to let them cool slightly before serving, so the sugar barely clings to the apple, creating the perfect bite without being overly sticky.

Why You Will Love These Bites
The perfect combination of sweet and spicy flavors
Crispy texture mingled with the soft apple center
Ideal for kids' parties and fall gatherings

Choosing the Right Apples

When selecting apples for your Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Bites, consider varieties that provide a good balance of sweetness and tartness. For instance, Granny Smith apples bring a delightful tartness that contrasts well with the sugary coating, while Gala apples offer a sweeter profile. Try to choose firm apples with vibrant skin for the best texture and appearance. Avoid soft or bruised apples, as they may not hold up well during preparation or when coated.

After washing your apples, drying them thoroughly is crucial, as excess moisture can prevent the cinnamon sugar mixture from adhering properly. If you're short on time, you can use a paper towel to blot them dry quickly. Once cored and quartered, the apple pieces will be easier for little hands to manage, making these bites perfect for festive gatherings.

The Science of Cinnamon Sugar Coating

When creating the cinnamon sugar mixture, it’s important to achieve the right ratio of sugar to cinnamon to ensure a balanced flavor. Using one cup of sugar to one tablespoon of cinnamon strikes the right balance without overpowering the natural apple taste. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your taste preference, but I recommend keeping the cinnamon as a prominent flavor to enhance the overall experience.

Heating the water before adding the cinnamon sugar is a key step that helps dissolve the sugar quickly, ensuring a smooth coating. You want to bring the water to a gentle boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer; this allows the cinnamon mixture to dissolve evenly, preventing graininess on your apple bites. Remember to stir continuously until the mixture is glossy and fully integrated—this step is crucial for consistent coverage.

Storing and Serving Your Candy Apple Bites

Once your Candy Apple Bites have cooled and set on the parchment-lined tray, storing them is straightforward. For optimal freshness, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you're planning to make them ahead of time, consider making the coating and slicing the apples separately—this way, you can cover the apples and serve them fresh, preserving the crunchy texture of the apple.

These bites can also be a great addition to a dessert platter, paired with caramel sauce or chocolate for dipping. Alternatively, consider sprinkling crushed nuts or adding a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for extra flavor and texture. Each variation brings a new twist to this classic treat, ensuring that they remain exciting for every palate.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients

2 medium apples (any variety)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup water
Wooden skewers or sticks

These ingredients will create a sweet and crunchy delight!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your candy apple bites:

Prepare the Apples

Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Cut each apple into quarters and remove the core. Insert a wooden skewer into the center of each apple quarter.

Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon until well mixed. In a small saucepan, bring water to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the cinnamon sugar mixture gradually, stirring until fully dissolved.

Coat the Apple Bites

Remove the saucepan from heat and dip each apple quarter into the warm cinnamon sugar mixture. Allow any excess coating to drip off and set aside on a parchment-lined tray to cool.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooled, these bites are ready to enjoy. Serve them at room temperature for the best experience.

Enjoy your delicious candy apple bites!

Pro Tips

For added fun, try drizzling melted chocolate over the finished bites or sprinkling some crushed nuts for extra texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice that the cinnamon sugar isn't sticking well to the apples after dipping, it may be due to moisture on the apple surface or the coating being too cold. Ensure that the apples are completely dry before dipping, and if the cinnamon sugar mixture has cooled down too much, gently reheat it until it is warm to the touch and slightly thin, making it easier to coat the apple pieces effectively.

Sometimes, apple bites may not hold their shape after dipping if they are sliced too thin or if the apple variety is too soft. To avoid this issue, ensure your apple pieces are thick enough (about 1 inch) to support the coating. If you find the apples are becoming mushy, switch to a crisper apple variety on your next attempt.

Variations to Try

For a unique twist on your Cinnamon Sugar Candy Apple Bites, incorporate spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice into your cinnamon sugar mixture. These additions complement the fall season perfectly and create a warm, inviting flavor profile. Another option is to use flavored extracts, such as vanilla or almond, to enhance the depth of your cinnamon sugar coating and make it even more aromatic.

If you want to make these bites more indulgent, consider topping them with crushed toffee bits or drizzling them with caramel sauce after coating. This adds a decadent touch to the treat and makes them even more appealing for special occasions. Serve them alongside fresh whipped cream or yogurt for a delightful dessert experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite apple variety. Tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Fuji work well.

→ How can I store leftover candy apple bites?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh!

→ What should I do if the cinnamon sugar mixture hardens?

If it hardens, you can gently reheat the mixture on low heat until it melts again. Just be careful not to overheat it.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as it does not contain any animal products.