Ingredients
6 Small Apples (Organic, With Red Or Green Skin)
100g Coconut Sugar
2 Tablespoons Honey
50ml Water
1 Teaspoon White Vinegar
½ Teaspoon Cinnamon
1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Wooden Sticks Or Skewers
Toffee apples are a classic treat, but they often come with a hefty dose of sugar. If you’re looking to enjoy this festive delight in a healthier way, this version is for you. By making a few smart swaps, you can reduce the sugar content while still enjoying that sweet crunch we all love.
Perfect for a special occasion or just a fun snack, these healthier candy apples are a treat you can feel good about. And guess what? This recipe is low in sugar, so you can even add it to your weight loss plans! So, let’s make them!
How to Make Healthy Toffee Apples?
The National Library of Medicine says that apple is the most grown fruit globally and is a rich source of certain micronutrients like iron, zinc, vitamins C and E, and more. Its bioactive compounds can help manage various chronic diseases like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. So, we should try to add apples to our diet in different ways.
Here’s how to make these healthier apple candy using natural sweeteners like coconut sugar and honey. Follow the simple steps below to create a delicious, guilt-free treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly and dry them well. Insert wooden sticks or skewers into the core of each apple, making sure they are secure.
2. Make the Toffee: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the coconut sugar, honey, and water. Stir over low heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Once dissolved, increase the heat and add the vinegar. Let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches a temperature of 150°C (or the ‘hard crack’ stage if you’re using a candy thermometer). If desired, add cinnamon and vanilla extract for extra flavor.
3. Coat the Apples: Once ready, dip an apple into this mixture quickly and turn it in order to coat it evenly. Allow the excess to drip off before placing the apple on a sheet of baking parchment or a greased tray. Let them cool completely to harden the toffee.
4. Serve: Your crunchy and tasty red or green toffee candies are ready to be indulged! They can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for a few days.
Nutritional Value Of Toffee Apples
The Harvard School Of Public Health says that apples are a good source of quercetin and pectin. Quercetin is a plant chemical with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Pectin, on the other hand, is soluble fiber good for constipation and lowers bad cholesterol levels.
Here’s the nutritional breakdown of apple toffee made with coconut sugar and honey, offering a slightly healthier twist on this classic treat.
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Sugars: 40g (lower than traditional versions)
- Fat: 0.2g
- Protein: 0.3g
- Fiber: 2g
Note that all of these values will vary based on the apple size and coating used.
Health Benefits of Toffee Apples Recipe
This healthier version of toffee or candy apples brings together the goodness of natural ingredients that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer several nutritional benefits:
1. Lower Glycemic Index: Anyhow, apple is good for diabetes. Further, coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar, meaning it causes a slower and more stable rise in blood sugar levels. It thus makes it very ideal for those who are looking after their blood sugar or perhaps want to avoid energy crashes.
2. Natural Sweeteners: Honey is a natural sweetener packed with antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress in the body. It also contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, offering more than just sweetness.
3. Rich in Antioxidants: Considered a superfood, cinnamon is very often attributed to anti-inflammatory properties and regulatory functions with blood sugar levels. It warms up the flavor in toffee, making it healthy with every sip.
4. Vitamins and Minerals: According to the USDA, apples are a rich source of essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Vitamin C supports a healthy immune system, while fiber aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight by promoting a feeling of fullness.
5. Healthy Fats: This recipe is low in fat; coconut sugar and honey bring healthy carbs into your system, unlike many sweets processed with unhealthy fats. If you want to try some other version of it, check out the soft toffee apple recipe for caramel apples from Fitelo.
6. No Refined Sugars: The use of coconut sugar and honey instead of refined white sugar in this recipe means no empty calories or high glycemic load that can further lead to weight gain and other problems if taken over a longer period.
This includes wholesome ingredients with natural sweeteners that make this toffee apple for weight loss treat a little healthier than the original ones. Enjoy the treat, knowing that you’re making a better choice for your health!
Tips To Make Perfect Toffee Apples
Following are a few tips that will help in making perfect candy apples each time:
1. Choosing Apples: Apples used should be small, firm, and a bit sour, like Granny Smith or Fuji. Firmness will provide excellent holding when toffee hot coats them, while the sour taste balances the sweetness of the toffee.
2. Dry Apples: After washing, the apples must be perfectly dry before dipping in toffee. Any residual moisture in the fruit will definitely affect the consistency of the toffee that covers it.
3. Secure the Sticks: Deeply insert wooden sticks or skewers into the apples so that they are definitely set. This helps in dipping them easily and also ensures the apples do not slip off during the process.
4. Watch the Temperature: Using a candy thermometer, watch the temperature of the toffee. The best stage is the ‘hard crack’, which is at 150°C. That means when cooled, the toffee should be hard and crunchy. If you are not using a thermometer, test it by dropping a little into the cold water. It should harden immediately and also be brittle.
5. Go Fast: When the toffee is ready, you have to go fast so that you can coat the apples before the mixture actually starts to set. Keep the apples handy, dipping them quickly and letting excess toffee drip off prior to laying them down.
6. Parchment: Place the dipped apples onto a piece of baking parchment or onto a well-greased tray. This stops them from sticking and makes them easier to remove once cooled.
7. Add Toppings: To give it an extra touch, roll the freshly dipped apples in crushed nut mixture, seeds, or even shredded coconut before the toffee sets. Adds flavor and texture.
8. Cool Properly: Allow the toffee apples to cool down completely at room temperature. Do not refrigerate them, lest your toffees tend to sweat and become sticky.
9. Store Correctly: If you are not going to eat them straight away, allow the apple toffees to be kept in an airtight container at room temperature. This shall keep the toffees crispy and not allow them to go soft.
Just follow these hints and get perfectly crisp, shiny toffee or candy apples that everyone will love!
How To Serve Toffee Apples?
Serving the sweet candy apples can be as much fun as making them! Here are some of the ideas on how to serve them:
- Classic Presentation: Serve the candy apples just the way they are. Keep the wooden sticks in place. Place them in a platter or basket in a charming, rustic manner.
- Wrapping Decoratively: Individually wrap each toffee apple with clear cellophane and tie a ribbon on it. This makes them very good presents or party favors.
- Sliced for Sharing: If you were serving a big group of people, consider cutting the apple toffees into wedges. This way, everyone can enjoy a piece without needing to commit to an entire apple.
- Add a Dip: Serve the candy apples with a side of healthy dips, like melted chocolate, caramel, or even a yogurt-based dip. Your guests can drizzle a little extra over their slices for an added indulgence.
- Display Them: Showcase this apple treat on a multitier cake stand at your party or gathering. To give it that oomph in presentation, add some seasonal decorations, like leaves or flowers.
- Beverage Pairing: Toffee or candy apples go well with hot drinks, such as spiced cider, hot chocolate, or even chai tea. It is, therefore, good and cozy during cool weather and festive occasions.
- Dessert Bar Setup: Set up a dessert table where apple toffees can be part of it. Set out varieties of toppings, such as nuts, sprinkles, or even mini chocolate chips that one can sprinkle on top of toffee apples.
- Seasonal Themes: Customize your presentation according to the season or event. For example, during Diwali, you could serve them alongside traditional sweets, or during Halloween, you could decorate the apples with spooky faces.
These serving ideas can make your sweet apple candies the star of the show, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home.
Other Apple Treats From Fitelo’s Kitchen!
Check out some other amazing sweet treats comprising apples as the main ingredient that are healthy plus yummy!
1. Apple Cup Cake
We all love soft cupcakes as they are the best sweet dish for a party or as snacks for kids. This recipe is super easy to make and also sugar-free!
2. Apple Pie
Who will deny a warm slice of crispy apple pie with a dash of cinnamon? No one! Make this mouthwatering dish in the comfort of your home with this recipe below!
3. Apple Chocolate Shake For Weight Loss
Swap your creamy, sugary, and unhealthy milkshakes with this super yummy and healthy apple milkshake with a chocolate recipe by Dietitian Mac Singh. Not only adults but even kids will love it!
4. Apple Halwa
Are you looking for a twist from traditional sooji or gajar halwa? Here it is! Try this apple halwa recipe, which is best for diabetics as it is a sugar-free and super healthy dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Do People Eat Toffee Apples?
People eat toffee or candy apples because they’re a nostalgic treat that combines the natural crispness of apples with a sweet, crunchy toffee coating. They’re often enjoyed during festive occasions, bringing back childhood memories of fairs and celebrations. Plus, they’re a fun way to satisfy a sweet craving while still enjoying the goodness of fruit.
Why Is My Toffee Not Sticking To The Apple?
If your toffee isn’t sticking, it’s likely due to the waxy coating on the apples, so make sure to wash and dry them thoroughly. Also, ensure the toffee is at the right temperature (hard crack stage) when dipping. Any moisture on the apples can cause the toffee to slide off.
Why Is My Toffee Not Chewy?
If your toffee isn’t chewy, it’s probably been cooked to too high a temperature, reaching the “hard crack” stage instead of the “soft ball” or “firm ball” stage. To get a chewy texture, aim for around 118-130°C. Overcooking will result in a hard, brittle toffee instead of a soft, chewy one.
Should Toffee Apples Be Refrigerated?
Toffee apples don’t need to be refrigerated; in fact, storing them at room temperature helps keep the toffee coating crisp. Refrigerating them can cause the toffee to become sticky or sweat, which might ruin the texture. It’s best to store them in a cool, dry place.
How Long Can Toffee Apples Last?
Toffee apples can last up to a week when stored at room temperature in an airtight container. If you see any signs of moisture or if the toffee becomes sticky, it’s best to consume them sooner. Keeping them in a cool, dry place helps maintain their crispness.
Contact Us Today
Get in touch with our expert team at Fitelo to kick-start your transformative journey! Let us guide you toward your weight loss goals and help you cultivate sustainable and healthy eating habits. So, contact us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you with Fitelo!
Disclaimer
This blog was written to help you make healthy and better food choices. So, be aware and take care. The vital thing to consider is your health before starting a restrictive diet. Therefore, before starting, always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian if you have any concerns.
Eat Healthy, Live Healthy. Enjoy a long, happy life.
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