Sweet Ocean Candy Apples Recipe: A Stunning Treat with a Splash of Ocean Magic

If you're looking for a jaw-dropping dessert that will wow both kids and adults alike, this Sweet Ocean Candy Apples Recipe is just the thing. These candy apples are not only a delightful treat with their crunchy candy shell and juicy apple center, but they’re also a stunning visual experience. Each apple is coated with vibrant blue and teal hues, shimmering like the ocean itself, and topped with decorative waves and edible glitter for a truly magical look.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I first discovered this amazing recipe on the Big Back Snacks Facebook Group, and I couldn’t wait to share it here. It’s become a favorite treat for summer parties, beach-themed events, or even as a fun, creative project with the kids. The colors, the shimmer, the ocean-like swirls—it’s as much fun to make as it is to eat!

The Magic Behind the Ocean Candy Apples

Candy apples have been around for over a century, originating as a seasonal treat in America during fall festivals and Halloween. But this recipe gives the classic candy apple a refreshing ocean twist! By combining rich vanilla flavor with beautiful, sea-inspired decorations, these candy apples evoke the beauty of the ocean, making them perfect for summer gatherings or seaside celebrations.

Now let’s dive into the ingredients and the steps to create your very own Sweet Ocean Candy Apples.

Ingredients for Sweet Ocean Candy Apples

• 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, for a tangy bite)
• 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 ¼ cups water
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Gel-based blue and teal food coloring (for vibrant ocean hues)
• White candy melts (for wave-like swirls)
• Edible glitter or shimmer dust (optional, for an ocean sparkle effect)
• Edible pearl sprinkles or small sugar sea shells

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Apples:

Thoroughly wash and dry your apples to remove any waxy coating, which will help the candy coating stick better. Insert wooden skewers or sticks into the tops of the apples and set them aside on a parchment-lined baking tray.

2. Make the Vanilla Candy Coating:

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, light corn syrup, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves. Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring, increase the heat, and allow the mixture to boil. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. When the candy reaches the hard crack stage (300°F/150°C), remove it from heat.

3. Create the Ocean Look:

Carefully divide the hot candy mixture into two heatproof bowls. In one bowl, add blue gel food coloring, and in the other, add teal food coloring. Stir both mixtures until the colors are smooth and vibrant. Now, dip each apple into the blue mixture, making sure it is evenly coated. After the blue coating, lightly swirl each apple into the teal mixture to create a beautiful gradient effect that mimics ocean waves.

4. Add the Decorations:

Melt the white candy melts and drizzle them over the tops of the apples to resemble foamy ocean waves. For extra sparkle, sprinkle edible glitter while the candy coating is still setting. You can also add edible pearl sprinkles or small sugar seashells for a beach-inspired touch.

5. Cool and Serve:

Place the apples back on the parchment-lined tray and allow them to cool completely until the candy coating has fully hardened. Once set, your Sweet Ocean Candy Apples are ready to dazzle!

Tips for the Perfect Sweet Ocean Candy Apples:

• Temperature is Key: Make sure your candy mixture reaches 300°F for the hard crack stage. If the mixture doesn't get hot enough, the coating will be too soft and sticky.
• Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel-based food coloring is best for this recipe because it provides vibrant color without altering the texture of the candy coating.
• Decorating Fun: Get creative! Add different types of edible decorations like glitter, sea-themed sprinkles, or even drizzle white chocolate to look like sandy beaches.

Variations and Customization

• Flavored Candy Coating: For a fun twist, you can add different flavors to the candy coating. Try adding a hint of coconut extract or citrus for a tropical vibe.
• Different Colors: Not a fan of blue? Customize the candy apples with different colors for other themes—think pastel pinks for a mermaid party or greens for a tropical theme.
• Healthy Alternatives: If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use natural food dyes made from fruit and vegetable extracts.

Pairing Suggestions

These Sweet Ocean Candy Apples are fantastic on their own, but they pair well with a variety of summer treats. Serve them alongside a refreshing lemonade or a tropical fruit platter for the perfect beach-themed party. They also make for a delightful gift or party favor—just wrap them individually in cellophane with a cute ribbon!

These Sweet Ocean Candy Apples are sure to become the star of your next gathering. They’re visually stunning and absolutely delicious, combining the tartness of a crisp apple with the sweet vanilla candy coating. Not only will they transport your taste buds to a seaside paradise, but they’re also a fun, creative project to make with friends or family.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how they turned out! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know if you made any fun customizations. And don’t forget to follow me for more fun and creative recipes like this!

Enjoy your sweet seaside treat!