How Far In Advance You Can Make Candy Apples Before They Go Bad

Few things symbolize fall as clearly as candy apples. These treats are staples of county fairs and Halloween parties, but they can just as easily be made at home for any occasion. The good news is that candy apples can be made up to one week in advance of eating, though there are steps to take to ensure the best quality by the time of consumption.

Candy apples are just apples encased in melted sugar, but while they have a straightforward recipe, they need to be stored well to minimize any quality degradation. The concern is that the hole made by the inserted stick allows for air exposure, which can limit freshness. However, this can be mitigated with proper insulation. First, make sure to completely cover the apple and part of the stick with the melted candy coating. When the candy layer hardens, it will seal everything inside. This alone should be enough to prevent oxidation. For added protection, seal the treats in airtight containers or, even better, wrap the apple in plastic, tying it tightly where the stick and apple meet.

If you need to prepare them ahead of time, candy apples will keep in the refrigerator for around five to seven days with little to no change in quality. Ultimately, they can be refrigerated for up to two weeks, but some loss of freshness is almost certain during that time. Still, even slightly bruised apples are safe to eat.

There are over 20 varieties of apples, and they're not all created equal. Some apple varieties are more prone to browning than others, so choose wisely for this fall favorite. Pink Ladies, Evercrisps, and Ambrosias are all safe bets, and are usually easily accessible in stores. These will give your candy apples the best chance of maintaining freshness days after you make them.

Best practice dictates leaving the candy apples in the refrigerator until you're ready to eat them, but if you forgot them on the counter overnight, don't fret. As long as the apple is well-coated, a night outside the fridge shouldn't have any lasting effects on either the color or taste. You can even opt to keep them out of the fridge for a day or two if you want — just make sure your home temperature is set to 65 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. A warmer climate can cause the candy layer to start melting, which allows for air exposure. However, if the apples are encased in beeswax or plastic wrap, this will be minimal. Realistically, between the candy coating, the apple's skin, the plastic wrap or container, and the refrigerator, your candy apples will be well taken care of for days on end.