I’ve tried my hand at quite a few retro recipes over the years, and the results have been pretty varied. Some dishes stand the test of time and some have me scratching my head at how anyone ever thought it was a good idea. Today’s recipe is thankfully the former! When I came across these vibrant Candied Apples I had to know more. The recipe was surprisingly easy so I set out to give it a try…
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. Sliced apples, a box of Red Hots, and a splash of water come together in the oven to create the tastiest dish! As the Red Hots dissolve, they coat the apples in a glossy, cinnamon spiced flavor that’s as delicious as it is colorful. The apples bake to tender perfection in the oven, soaking it all up. Stirring every 15 minutes ensures the apples are evenly coated and bursting with flavor. Easy as that, they’re ready to eat!
Servings: 8
WW Points: 1 Point per serving
Ingredients
- 8 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1½ cups water
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cloves (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp sugar-free cinnamon drink mix (optional, for extra candy flavor)
- ¼ cup zero-calorie sweetener (erythritol or monk fruit), or to taste
- A few drops of red food coloring (optional, for the classic red look)
Instructions
- Add the water, sweetener, cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, and optional drink mix to a large saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the sliced apples and stir to coat.
- Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 10–15 minutes, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
- If using food coloring, stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Let the apples cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious warm or chilled.
Serving ideas:
- Top with 0% plain Greek yogurt for extra protein.
- Sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing dessert.