Description
Sweet cinnamon rock candy sparkles with nostalgic holiday charm, delivering spicy-sweet crystalline magic right to kitchen counters. Homemade sugar crystals promise delightful crunch and warmth you can savor with each festive bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 3.75 cups (887.5 ml) granulated sugar
- 1.5 cups (355 ml) light corn syrup
- 1 cup (237 ml) water
Flavoring and Coloring:
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) cinnamon oil
- Red food coloring (optional)
Preparation and Coating:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Candy thermometer
- Large saucepan
- Heat-resistant spoon
- Baking sheet or large heatproof surface
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
Instructions
- Protect your work surface by laying out a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly dusted with powdered sugar, to prevent sticking and create an easy transfer area.
- Combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water in a heavy saucepan, stirring gently over medium heat until sugar completely dissolves and transforms into a clear liquid.
- Attach a candy thermometer securely to the pan’s side, ensuring it hovers above the bottom, then allow the mixture to reach a rolling boil without additional stirring.
- Monitor the temperature carefully, maintaining a steady boil until the syrup precisely hits 300F, which typically requires 20-25 minutes of careful watching to prevent scorching.
- Immediately remove the saucepan from heat when the target temperature is reached, then swiftly incorporate cinnamon oil and red food coloring, being cautious of potential steam and rapid bubbling.
- Pour the molten candy mixture onto the prepared sheet with a smooth, controlled motion, tilting to create an even, thin layer across the surface.
- Allow the candy to rest undisturbed at room temperature, giving it approximately one hour to completely solidify and develop its signature brittle texture.
- Fracture the hardened candy into irregular, bite-sized fragments using a mallet, rolling pin, or sturdy spoon, creating an appealing, rustic appearance.
- Gently coat the broken pieces with a light dusting of powdered sugar to prevent clumping and enhance visual appeal.
- Transfer the finished candy to an airtight container, where it will maintain its crisp texture and intense cinnamon flavor for up to two weeks at room temperature.
Notes
- Prepare a clean, dry workspace to prevent moisture from ruining the candy’s texture.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching during cooking.
- Keep a close eye on the temperature, as even a few degrees can dramatically change the candy’s consistency.
- Wear long sleeves and use caution when handling hot sugar syrup to avoid painful burns.
- Swap cinnamon oil for other flavor extracts like peppermint or vanilla for variety.
- Create a gluten-free and vegan version by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free and plant-based.
- Experiment with natural food colorings like beet juice for a chemical-free alternative to artificial red coloring.
- Break candy into different shapes and sizes for a more rustic, homemade appearance.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 155
- Sugar: 37 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg