Brazilian recipe
Classic Homemade Maçã do Amor with Shiny Sugar Coating
Learn how to make the iconic Brazilian candy apple, featuring a smooth, crisp caramelized sugar shell. A nostalgic treat that is perfect for parties.
0.0 / 5 by 0 Reviews
Ingredients
500 ml water
1 kg white granulated sugar
12 small to medium apples, washed and dried thoroughly
1 tablespoon white vinegar
Cooking oil for greasing
Red food coloring (powder or liquid)
1 kg white granulated sugar
12 small to medium apples, washed and dried thoroughly
1 tablespoon white vinegar
Cooking oil for greasing
Red food coloring (powder or liquid)
Where to find ingredients
In Zambia, you can find most of these ingredients in any major local supermarket or high-street grocery store. Apples are widely available in fresh produce sections. White granulated sugar and standard white vinegar are staple pantry items in any local shop or market. For the red food coloring, look in the baking supplies aisle of larger supermarkets or check at specialized cake decorating shops in shopping malls. If you cannot find popsicle sticks, they are easily sourced from local craft shops or stationers.
Preparation method
- Wash the apples thoroughly and dry them completely with a clean cloth
- Insert one or two popsicle sticks into each apple to make them easy to handle and dip
- Lightly grease a metal baking tray or flat surface with oil to prevent the candy from sticking
- Combine the sugar, water, vinegar, and food coloring in a saucepan
- Stir very gently, then avoid stirring further to prevent the sugar from crystallizing
- Place over high heat until the mixture comes to a boil
- Once boiling, reduce to medium heat and simmer for about 25 minutes without stirring until the syrup reaches the hard-crack stage
- To test the consistency, dip a stick into the syrup and drop a bit onto the greased tray
- If it forms a solid, crunchy shell as it cools, it is ready
- Hold each apple by the stick, dip it into the hot syrup, and turn to coat completely
- Set the coated apples on the greased tray and allow the sugar shell to set firmly before serving
Observations
Maçã do amor is a beloved Brazilian classic, bringing together fresh, crisp apples and a glossy, hardened sugar glaze. This simple method yields a treat that is as beautiful to look at as it is to eat, offering that satisfying crackle of hardened sugar when you take a bite. By carefully simmering sugar with a splash of vinegar and red coloring, you create a perfect candy coating that clings beautifully to the fruit. It is a fantastic showstopper for special celebrations or a fun homemade treat.
Ratings and comments