Save A spooky, enchanting treat board featuring poison apples and a selection of Halloween-inspired snacks—perfect for parties and festive gatherings.
This treat board became a favorite at our Halloween gathering, impressing guests with its spooky look and delicious flavors.
Ingredients
- Poison Apples: 6 small apples (preferably Granny Smith), 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup light corn syrup, ¼ cup water, ½ tsp black gel food coloring, ½ tsp vanilla extract, Wooden sticks
- Dips & Sauces: ½ cup caramel sauce, ½ cup dark chocolate sauce
- Sweet Treats: 1 cup chocolate-covered pretzel rods, 1 cup gummy worms, 1 cup marshmallows, ½ cup Halloween-themed candies (e.g., candy corn, jelly beans, eyeball candies), ½ cup chocolate bark, broken into pieces
- Fruits & Extras: ½ cup black grapes, ½ cup dried cranberries, ½ cup roasted pumpkin seeds
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Insert wooden sticks into the tops and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Step 3:
- Increase heat and boil (without stirring) until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer, about 7–8 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Remove from heat. Quickly stir in black gel food coloring and vanilla extract.
- Step 5:
- Working carefully, dip each apple into the candy mixture, swirling to coat completely. Let excess drip off, and place coated apples on a parchment-lined tray to set.
- Step 6:
- Arrange the poison apples in the center of a large serving board.
- Step 7:
- Neatly arrange caramel and chocolate sauces in small bowls for dipping.
- Step 8:
- Fill in the board with chocolate-covered pretzel rods, gummy worms, marshmallows, Halloween candies, chocolate bark, grapes, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately or within a few hours for best results.
Save This treat board always brings my family together during Halloween, sparking fun conversations and joyful moments.
Notes
For a more dramatic effect, drizzle extra black candy over apples once set. Pair with hot cider or mulled wine for adults.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, Candy thermometer, Wooden sticks, Parchment paper, Large serving board, Small bowls (for sauces)
Allergen Information
Contains tree fruit (apples, grapes), soy (in some chocolates), dairy (in caramel, chocolate), gluten (in pretzels, depending on brand). Some candies may contain nuts, dairy, or gluten—always check labels.
Save This enchanting treat board is sure to impress and delight your guests every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the perfect candy coating for the apples?
Heat sugar, corn syrup, and water until reaching 300°F for a hard crack stage, then quickly mix in black gel coloring and vanilla before dipping apples to ensure a crisp, shiny coating.
- → What type of apples work best for coating?
Small, firm Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness and sturdy texture, which hold up well under the hard candy coating.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary preferences?
Yes, black grapes can be replaced with blueberries or blackberries; ensure sauces and candies meet specific dietary needs like dairy- or gluten-free if necessary.
- → How can I prevent the candy coating from sticking to the tray?
Use parchment paper or a non-stick surface to place dipped apples, allowing the coating to cool and harden without sticking.
- → What complementary drinks pair well with this board?
Warm spiced cider or mulled wine enhance the festive experience, balancing the sweetness and adding cozy seasonal flavors.
- → Is it possible to prepare this board in advance?
Yes, prepare apples and treats a few hours ahead, but serve promptly to maintain crisp textures and fresh flavors.