Red-Hot Apples

This is a real comfort food.

4 tart apples, such as Granny Smith
2 cups water
1 1/4 cups cinnamon red-hot candies
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Peel, core and quarter the apples. Combine them with the remaining ingredients in a saucepan, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until the liquid is thickened and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.

Cool the apples in the syrup for at least 30 minutes.