Save A spooky, enchanting treat board featuring poison apples and a selection of Halloween-inspired snacks—perfect for parties and festive gatherings.
I first shared this treat board at a Halloween gathering and it was a huge hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- Poison Apples: 6 small apples (preferably Granny Smith), 1 cup granulated sugar, ½ cup light corn syrup, ¼ cup water, ½ tsp black gel food coloring, ½ tsp vanilla extract, wooden sticks
- Dips & Sauces: ½ cup caramel sauce, ½ cup dark chocolate sauce
- Sweet Treats: 1 cup chocolate-covered pretzel rods, 1 cup gummy worms, 1 cup marshmallows, ½ cup Halloween-themed candies (e.g., candy corn, jelly beans, eyeball candies), ½ cup chocolate bark broken into pieces
- Fruits & Extras: ½ cup black grapes, ½ cup dried cranberries, ½ cup roasted pumpkin seeds
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and thoroughly dry the apples. Insert wooden sticks into the tops and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Step 3:
- Increase heat and boil (without stirring) until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer, about 7–8 minutes.
- Step 4:
- Remove from heat. Quickly stir in black gel food coloring and vanilla extract.
- Step 5:
- Working carefully, dip each apple into the candy mixture, swirling to coat completely. Let excess drip off, and place coated apples on a parchment-lined tray to set.
- Step 6:
- Arrange the poison apples in the center of a large serving board.
- Step 7:
- Neatly arrange caramel and chocolate sauces in small bowls for dipping.
- Step 8:
- Fill in the board with chocolate-covered pretzel rods, gummy worms, marshmallows, Halloween candies, chocolate bark, grapes, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds.
- Step 9:
- Serve immediately or within a few hours for best results.
Pin it This treat board always brings my family together, creating fun and spooky memories every Halloween.
Notes
For a more dramatic effect, drizzle extra black candy over apples once set. Pair with hot cider or mulled wine for adults.
Required Tools
Medium saucepan, candy thermometer, wooden sticks, parchment paper, large serving board, small bowls for sauces.
Allergen Information
Contains tree fruit (apples, grapes), soy (in some chocolates), dairy (in caramel, chocolate), gluten (in pretzels depending on brand). Some candies may contain nuts, dairy, or gluten—always check labels.
Pin it This poison apple treat board is both simple to make and sure to impress your guests every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make the candy coating for the apples?
Heat sugar, corn syrup, and water until reaching 300°F (hard crack stage), then add black gel food coloring and vanilla. Quickly dip apples to coat and let them set.
- → Can I substitute the black grapes with other fruits?
Yes, blueberries or blackberries can be used for similar dark color and complementary flavors.
- → What is the best way to serve the sauces for dipping?
Place caramel and dark chocolate sauces in small bowls to allow easy dipping alongside the poison apples and snacks.
- → How should I handle the hot sugar mixture safely?
Use caution when cooking and handling the syrup as it reaches very high temperatures; using a candy thermometer and heat-resistant tools is recommended.
- → What are some enhancements for a dramatic presentation?
Drizzle extra black candy over the apples once set for a more intense, spooky effect on the board.
- → Is this board suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all included ingredients, including candies and sauces, are vegetarian-friendly.