Prepare Your Apples:

Insert wooden sticks into the tops of each apple, pushing about halfway in to ensure they are secure.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Create the Candy Coating

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium-high heat.

Stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture starts to boil.

Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan. Allow the mixture to boil, without stirring, until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).

Add Color and Flavor:

Once the candy mixture reaches 300°F, remove the saucepan from heat.

Quickly stir in the red and black food coloring along with the vanilla extract. Be careful as the mixture will be extremely hot.

Coat the Apples:

Working quickly, dip each apple into the hot candy mixture, tilting the saucepan if necessary to cover the apples completely.

Rotate the apples to ensure an even coating, letting any excess candy drip back into the saucepan.

Place the coated apples on the prepared baking sheet and let them cool completely.