Step 1: Prepare Your Apples. Wash and thoroughly dry your apples. Remove any wax coating by briefly dipping them in boiling water for 15 seconds, then quickly rinsing in cold water and drying completely. Insert a sturdy candy apple stick or popsicle stick into the stem end of each apple, pushing about halfway through. Place prepared apples on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the candy set faster.
Step 2: Make the Strawberry Shortcake Crumble. In a food processor, pulse vanilla sandwich cookies (or cooled shortbread) until fine crumbs form. Transfer to a shallow dish. Add a few drops of red food coloring and a teaspoon of strawberry extract or a tablespoon of freeze-dried strawberry powder. Mix well until uniformly pink and fragrant. Set aside. This crumble is essential for our Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples.
Step 3: Prepare the Candy Syrup. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently over medium-high heat until the sugar dissolves. Insert a candy thermometer, ensuring it doesn't touch the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
Step 4: Cook the Candy Syrup. Continue boiling until the candy thermometer registers between 300°F and 310°F (149-154°C), the hard-crack stage. This usually takes 15-20 minutes. Immediately remove from heat and carefully stir in the red gel food coloring and strawberry extract until fully incorporated and the desired vibrant red color is achieved.
Step 5: Dip the Apples. Working quickly, carefully dip each chilled apple into the hot candy syrup. Tilt the saucepan as needed to ensure the apple is fully coated. Swirl to coat evenly, letting any excess drip back into the pan.
Step 6: Coat with Crumble. Immediately after dipping, while the candy is still wet and sticky, roll or sprinkle the coated apple generously with the prepared strawberry shortcake crumble. Ensure all sides are covered to achieve that signature look for your Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples.
Step 7: Set and Cool. Place the coated apples back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the candy coating is firm and hard. This usually takes about 30-60 minutes. Once set, these stunning Strawberry Shortcake Candy Apples are ready to be enjoyed! Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.