Black-Hearted Candy Apples

Directions

1. Wash and thoroughly dry apples; remove stems. Insert wooden pop sticks into apples. Place on a waxed paper-lined baking sheet; set aside.
2. In a large heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, water and corn syrup. Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar is dissolved. Bring to a boil. Cook, without stirring, until a candy thermometer reads 290° (soft-crack stage).
3. Remove from the heat and pour into 2 small bowls. Stir 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and red food coloring into 1 bowl; stir black food coloring and remaining cinnamon into other bowl.
4. Working quickly, dip 2 apples into red sugar mixture and 2 apples into black sugar mixture to completely coat. Place on prepared baking sheet; let stand until set.