The Apple And The Pentagram

Bobbing for Apples

The tradition of bobbing for apples dates back to the Roman invasion of Britain, when the conquering army merged their own celebrations with traditional Celtic festivals.

The Romans brought with them the apple tree, a representation of the goddess of fruit trees, Pomona.

 

When an apple is sliced in half, the seeds form a pentagram-like shape, and it is thought that the manifestation of such a symbol meant that the apple could be used to determine marriages during this time of year. From this belief comes the game bobbing for apples. 

 

During the annual celebration, young unmarried people try to bite into an apple floating in water or hanging from a string; the first person to bite into the apple would be the next one to be allowed to marry.

 

Spooky Black Candy Apples

We tried making these and they were great.

Spooky Black Caramel Apples from bakedbyrachel.com

Spooky homemade black caramel apples, a fun treat perfect for Halloween parties!

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp corn syrup
• 2 Tbsp water
• 1/2C granulated sugar
• 1/4C heavy cream
• Pinch salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-3 tsp McCormick black food coloring
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter

Directions:

1. Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
2. Prepare apples: wash, dry and remove stems. Insert sticks or popsicle/craft sticks. Set aside.
3. In a medium heat proof bowl, add corn syrup, water and granulated sugar. Microwave for 5-7 minutes until mixture boils and turns a light amber color. Watch closely and remove immediately after it has reached ideal shade.
4. Stir in heavy cream, followed by salt, vanilla and food coloring. Mix until well incorporated. Finally stir in butter until smooth.
5. Immediately dip and coat one apple at a time. Tilt and rotate to coat completely. Hold over bowl with stick up, allowing excess to drip off or 10-15 seconds. Flip upside down, with stick down, letting caramel set for 15-20 seconds. Transfer to prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining apples.
6. Chill for at least 30-60 minutes to completely set caramel.
7. Can be made up to a day ahead.