There’s just something magical about biting into a shiny, candy-coated apple — that satisfying crunch, the glossy red shell, and the sweet-meets-tart flavor that takes you straight back to carnival days. Now imagine taking that nostalgic treat and giving it a gourmet makeover with crushed golden Oreos, freeze-dried strawberries, and a drizzle of creamy white chocolate.
That’s what makes these Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples so special. They combine everything you love about a fairground classic with the flavor and elegance of a bakery-worthy dessert.
Perfect for parties, holidays, or even a cozy weekend project, these apples are fun to make, gorgeous to serve, and absolutely irresistible to eat. Whether you’re looking for a cute treat for Valentine’s Day, a show-stopping centerpiece for a baby shower, or a sweet homemade gift, this recipe is sure to impress.
So grab some apples, your candy thermometer, and let’s get started on making these beautiful strawberry shortcake-inspired delights!
Ingredients You’ll Need 🍬
Let’s take a look at what goes into these stunning candy apples:
For the Candy Coating:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best — firm, crisp, and slightly tart)
- 2 cups granulated sugar – the base of your glossy candy shell.
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup – helps the candy set smooth and shiny.
- 3/4 cup water – keeps the sugar from burning while melting.
- Red food coloring (optional) – for that iconic candy apple look.
For the Strawberry Shortcake Crumb Coating:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed golden Oreos – buttery and sweet, perfect for that shortcake texture.
- 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed – brings a burst of fruity flavor and that gorgeous pink hue.
For the Finishing Touch:
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted – for a luscious drizzle that makes these apples pop.
Step-by-Step Instructions 🍓
These candy apples look fancy but are surprisingly easy to make once you know the process. Here’s how to bring them to life:
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Start by washing your apples thoroughly — you’ll want to remove any wax coating, as it can prevent the candy from sticking properly. Dry them completely, then insert wooden sticks or skewers into the tops.
Pro tip: If you’re using store-bought apples, dip them briefly in boiling water, then wipe with a paper towel to remove the wax before drying.
Step 2: Make the Candy Coating
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat without stirring too much. Attach your candy thermometer to the side of the pan and cook until the mixture reaches 300°F (the hard crack stage).
This usually takes about 15 minutes. Once it hits the right temperature, remove it from heat and add a few drops of red food coloring if you’d like that classic shiny red look.
Step 3: Dip the Apples
