Brazilian recipe
Classic Homemade Maçã do Amor with Glossy Sugar Glaze
Learn how to make vibrant Maçã do Amor with a traditional crackling sugar coating. This treat is a nostalgic staple at parties and festivals.
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Ingredients
500 ml water
1 kg granulated sugar
12 small or medium apples, cleaned and thoroughly dried
1 tablespoon white vinegar
Oil for greasing the baking tray
Red food coloring (powder or liquid)
1 kg granulated sugar
12 small or medium apples, cleaned and thoroughly dried
1 tablespoon white vinegar
Oil for greasing the baking tray
Red food coloring (powder or liquid)
Where to find ingredients
You can find most of these ingredients at local supermarkets or open-air markets (masoko) across Tanzania. For the apples, check the fruit sections of larger grocers like Shoprite, Village Supermarket, or local greengrocers. Look for smaller, firm apple varieties which hold up best for candying. Granulated sugar, white vinegar, and cooking oil are pantry staples available in any duka or supermarket. Food coloring can typically be found in the baking aisle or spice section of larger retail stores, or at shops specializing in cake decorating supplies in urban centers.
Preparation method
- Wash the apples thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean cloth until they are completely moisture-free
- Firmly insert one or two wooden skewers into the center of each apple to ensure they are easy to hold
- Lightly grease a baking tray or aluminum surface with a thin layer of oil so the candy doesn't stick
- In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the sugar, water, vinegar, and food coloring
- Stir the mixture very gently to combine, being careful not to use a spoon once it starts heating to avoid sugar crystallization
- Place the pot over high heat until it reaches a boil
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for approximately 25 minutes without stirring until the syrup thickens
- Test the consistency by dipping a skewer into the syrup and dropping it onto a plate
- if it sets into a hard, brittle, crackly layer, it is ready
- Holding the apples by the skewers, dip each one into the syrup, rotating gently to ensure a smooth, even coating
- Place the dipped apples onto the greased tray and allow the sugar shell to set completely before serving
Observations
Maçã do Amor is a quintessential Brazilian carnival sweet, featuring crisp fresh apples encased in a brilliant, jewel-toned hardened sugar shell. This simple recipe captures the nostalgic balance of fresh fruit and satisfying, glassy sweetness. By carefully caramelizing sugar with just a dash of vinegar and red food coloring, you create a beautiful treat that is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. It is a perfect project for celebrations or when you want to whip up a batch of classic sweets.
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