1. Wash and thoroughly dry each apple. Remove stems and insert a wooden skewer firmly into the core of each apple.

2. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.

3. Once sugar dissolves, stop stirring and bring the mixture to a boil. Use a pastry brush dipped in water to wash down any sugar crystals on the sides of the pan.

4. Continue to boil until the candy mixture reaches 300°F (149°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the hard crack stage.

5. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the red food coloring gel and optional black food coloring gel until evenly distributed.

6. Carefully dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, tilting the pan and rotating the apple to ensure it’s fully coated. Let any excess drip off.

7. Place the coated apples on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet to cool and harden completely.

8. Serve when the candy shell is firm and glossy. Enjoy your enchanting Poison Apples Recipe!