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 quickly became a hit at my family gatherings every October, creating fun and memorable moments.
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 My kids love helping arrange all the treats on the board, making this a festive family tradition every Halloween.
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 treat board is the perfect combination of spooky and sweet that brings everyone together to celebrate.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve the glossy black coating on the apples?
Heat sugar, corn syrup, and water to the hard crack stage (300°F), then stir in black gel food coloring and vanilla extract before dipping apples for a shiny finish.
- → What types of apples work best for this treat?
Small Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness and firm texture that holds up well when dipped and served.
- → Can I prepare the candy coating in advance?
Yes, but it’s best to dip the apples immediately after making the candy to ensure a smooth, glossy layer before it hardens.
- → What are good dipping sauces to pair with these apples?
Caramel and dark chocolate sauces complement the tart and sweet flavors, adding creamy richness to each bite.
- → Are there suggestions for alternative fruits or extras on the board?
Black grapes can be substituted with blueberries or blackberries, and additions like roasted pumpkin seeds and dried cranberries add texture and color.
- → How should I handle the hot sugar mixture safely?
Use a candy thermometer for temperature accuracy, handle with care using heat-resistant tools, and keep children away during preparation.