If the apple is the symbol of temptation, then a candy apple is the stuff of obsessive compulsion.  Did you know....

• In medieval Arabian cuisine, fruit was candied to preserve it, and over the past century Americans have translated that practice into gigantic apples covered with everything from red candy and caramel to chocolate, peanuts, popcorn, and more chocolate.
• "Toffee apple" was a slang term for a bomb used by soldiers in World War I.
• Candy apples are popular around the world. They're sold by bicycle vendors in China (they were once popular in opium dens), and they're eaten in England to celebrate Guy Fawkes Day, on November 5, which commemorates a thwarted attempt to blow up Parliament in 1605.
• Everything from a Kool-Aid flavor to a nail-polish shade has been named candy apple red. The evocative color has been used as a finish on a Fender Stratocaster guitar, and Joe Bailon, a legendary car customizer, created a classic finish of the same name, which he first applied to his 1950s Chevy coupe.

Making your own? Watch this video about how to store apples before heading to the produce stand. Look for tart, firm apples, such as Granny Smith, Gala, or McIntosh, to offset the sweet coating. When you're ready to start cooking, try this Caramel Apples recipe, or look through our apple recipes for more great ideas.