Taffy Apples Like the Ones Made at Kennywood Amusement Park Pit
Transport yourself to the nostalgic charm of Kennywood Amusement Park with this irresistible recipe for Taffy Apples, a sweet treat that’s equal parts whimsical and scrumptious. Featuring crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp coated in a glossy, homemade taffy shell, these apples are sure to evoke classic carnival vibes with every bite. The recipe combines simple pantry staples like granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and a touch of butter to create the perfect rich and chewy taffy coating, while the optional addition of red food coloring gives them that iconic candy-like hue. For extra fun, roll the coated apples in crushed peanuts or sprinkles for a custom finish! With an easy-to-follow process and only 35 minutes of active prep and cook time, these taffy apples are perfect for fall celebrations, nostalgic desserts, or recreating the magic of an amusement park classic at home.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 pieces Medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 6 pieces Wooden sticks (for holding the apples)
- 2 cups Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Light corn syrup
- 1 cup Water
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 10 drops Red food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup Crushed peanuts or sprinkles (optional, for rolling)
Instructions
Wash and dry the apples thoroughly to ensure the taffy adheres properly. Remove the stems and insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple, pushing it about halfway through.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar completely dissolves.
Once the mixture is smooth, stop stirring and attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan. Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). This typically takes about 10-15 minutes.
Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and red food coloring (if using) until evenly combined.
Working quickly, tilt the saucepan and dip each apple into the hot taffy mixture, coating it evenly. Allow any excess taffy to drip off before placing the apple onto the prepared baking sheet.
If desired, immediately roll the coated apples in crushed peanuts or sprinkles before the taffy sets.
Let the taffy apples cool and set completely at room temperature, about 1 hour, before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3850 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 100.5 g | 129% | |
| Saturated Fat | 25.0 g | 125% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 84 mg | 4% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 760.1 g | 276% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 37.1 g | 132% | |
| Total Sugars | 697.5 g | ||
| Protein | 40.5 g | 81% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 194 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 4.5 mg | 25% | |
| Potassium | 2252 mg | 48% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
