Creating your Glow-in-the-Dark Ghost Apples can be a fun and rewarding experience. Follow these steps to ensure perfect results:

1. Prepare the Apples: Wash and dry the apples thoroughly. Remove any stems and insert wooden skewers into the tops for easy dipping.

2. Prepare the Coating: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine sugar, water, white vinegar, corn syrup, and baking soda over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

3. Add the Glow: Gently stir in the tonic water. This is what will make your apples glow in the dark, thanks to the quinine in the tonic water.

4. Bring to a Boil: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, and cook until it reaches a temperature of 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.

5. Cool Slightly: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Once it’s cool enough to handle but still warm, you are ready to dip the apples.

6. Dip the Apples: Quickly dip each apple into the syrup, rotating it to ensure it’s evenly coated. Allow excess syrup to drip off before placing it on parchment paper.

7. Decorate (Optional): While the coating is still warm and sticky, apply edible decorations like ghost faces or sprinkles if desired.

8. Cool Completely: Let the coated apples cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. They should harden and be ready for display.

9. Test the Glow: In a dark room, shine a flashlight on the apples to activate the glow. Enjoy the magical effect!

10. Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in a cool place or refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

These steps will ensure that your Glow-in-the-Dark Ghost Apples are a spectacular treat!