A 1 oz candied apple contains approximately 36 calories. If you love the sweet and crunchy taste of this popular autumn treat, then you'll be happy to know that you don't have to feel guilty about indulging in one every now and then. In fact, there are even some benefits to eating candied apples!

Candied apples are made by coating apples in a sugary mixture that hardens into a crispy shell. While this coating does add some extra calories and sugar to the fruit, apples themselves are a low-calorie, high-fiber snack. One medium apple has just 95 calories and 4 grams of dietary fiber, making it a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.

In this article, we'll explore some fun and informative facts about candied apples, including how to make them at home, when to eat them, and how to incorporate them into your diet in a healthy way.

Calories in Each Candied Apple

As mentioned before, a 1 oz candied apple contains approximately 36 calories. However, the exact calorie count will depend on the recipe and the size of the apple. Some candied apples may be made with additional ingredients that can increase their calorie count, such as caramel or chocolate. It's important to read the nutrition label or check with the maker to get an accurate estimate of how many calories are in each apple.

Benefits of Eating Candied Apples

While it's true that candied apples are not the healthiest snack choice out there, there are still some benefits to indulging in one every now and then. First and foremost, apples themselves are a great source of nutrition. They contain antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, among other nutrients. The high sugar and calorie content in the candy coating may not be ideal, but it's still better to eat a candied apple than a bag of candy.

How to Make Candied Apples at Home

Making candied apples at home is a fun and festive way to celebrate the season. Here's what you'll need: - Apples (granny smith or honeycrisp work well) - White granulated sugar - Light corn syrup - Red food coloring - Candy thermometer - Popsicle sticks or skewers - Parchment paper Follow these steps to make your own candied apples: 1. Wash and thoroughly dry your apples. Insert a Popsicle stick or skewer into the top of each apple. 2. In a saucepan, mix together 2 cups of sugar, 3/4 cup of corn syrup, and 1 cup of water. Place a candy thermometer into the mixture and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit. 3. Turn off the heat and stir in a few drops of red food coloring. 4. Holding the apple by the stick, dip it into the candy mixture and swirl it around to coat it completely. 5. Place the coated apple onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and harden. Repeat with the remaining apples.

Health Risks of Consuming Candied Apples

While candied apples can be a tasty treat, too much of a good thing can be bad for your health. The high sugar content in candied apples can lead to tooth decay and other dental problems, as well as weight gain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Some people may also be allergic to the ingredients in the candy coating.

The Best Time to Eat Candied Apples

Candied apples are often associated with Halloween and fall festivals, but they can be enjoyed at any time of year. Try serving them as a dessert at your next dinner party, or enjoy one as a special treat after a long day at work. Just be sure to eat them in moderation and brush your teeth afterwards to prevent tooth decay!

Candied Apples as a Dessert

Candied apples make a fun and unexpected dessert option that's sure to impress your guests. To make your candied apples even more special, try topping them with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or coconut flakes. You can also experiment with different types of candy coatings, such as chocolate or caramel, to create new flavor combinations.

Ways to Incorporate Candied Apples into Your Diet

While candied apples should be enjoyed in moderation due to their high sugar content, there are still some creative ways to incorporate them into your diet. Try slicing up a candied apple and adding it to a salad for a sweet and crunchy twist, or use it as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt. You can also make your own healthier version of a candy apple by using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Comparing the Calorie Count of Candied Apples to Other Desserts

While candied apples are not the lowest calorie dessert option, they are still a better choice than many other popular treats. For example, a 1 oz slice of chocolate cake contains around 140 calories, while a 6 oz scoop of ice cream contains around 250 calories. Compared to these options, a 1 oz candied apple is a relatively low-calorie treat.

Making Healthy Substitutions in Candied Apple Recipes

If you're looking to make your candied apples a little healthier, there are a few simple substitutions you can make. Instead of using white sugar and corn syrup, try using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with using less candy coating to reduce the overall sugar content of the apple. Be sure to choose apples that are in season and locally grown for the freshest and most nutritious fruit.

The Impact of Candied Apple Consumption on Weight Loss

While eating a 1 oz candied apple is not likely to make or break your weight loss goals, it's still important to be mindful of your overall sugar and calorie intake. If you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet, it's best to limit your consumption of sugary treats like candied apples. Instead, try incorporating more fresh fruit and vegetables into your diet, along with lean proteins and whole grains.