why make this recipe
Cinnamon Rock Candy is a delightful treat that combines sweetness with a spicy kick. It is perfect for gift-giving, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying at home. Making this candy allows you to customize the flavor and color to your taste. Plus, it’s a fun project that can be done alone or with family and friends.
how to make Cinnamon Rock Candy
Ingredients:
- 3 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups light corn syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon oil (or to taste)
- Red food coloring (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Directions:
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring and continue boiling until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Once the desired temperature is reached, remove from heat and stir in cinnamon oil and red food coloring if using.
- Immediately pour into a greased baking pan without spreading.
- When the candy is almost cool but still firm, lightly score lines across it.
- Break into pieces once cooled and dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
how to serve Cinnamon Rock Candy
Cinnamon Rock Candy can be served in many ways. You can place it in cute candy jars as gifts or serve it on a platter at parties. It also makes a great addition to holiday dessert tables. Enjoy it by itself or with a cup of hot chocolate or tea.
how to store Cinnamon Rock Candy
To store your Cinnamon Rock Candy, keep it in an airtight container. Make sure it is completely cooled before putting it away. You can keep it at room temperature for up to a month. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but be aware that the texture may change.
tips to make Cinnamon Rock Candy
- Use a good candy thermometer to ensure the right temperature for the perfect texture.
- Be careful when handling hot sugar syrup as it can burn easily.
- If you want a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a bit more cinnamon oil but do it gradually to avoid overpowering the taste.
- For a fun twist, use different colors of food coloring or shapes when pouring the candy.
variation
You can switch up the flavor by using other extracts like vanilla or peppermint instead of cinnamon. Experiment with different colors to match the occasion or your personal preference.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular food coloring instead of red?
Yes, you can use any color of food coloring you prefer!
2. What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
You can test the sugar mixture by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a hard ball, it is ready.
3. How can I make the candy less sticky?
Dust the finished candy with powdered sugar to prevent pieces from sticking together. Store it properly in an airtight container as well.
