Description
Learn how to make classic rock candy at home with this simple stovetop candy recipe. Using basic ingredients like water, corn syrup, and sugar, you can create beautifully flavored and colored crystallized sugar treats that are perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- ½ cup water (114 grams)
- ¾ cup light corn syrup (234 grams)
- 2 cups granulated sugar (400 grams)
- 2 teaspoons flavoring extract (8 grams) – raspberry recommended, but any flavor works
- Food coloring (optional) – blue used here, but choose your preferred color
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the water, light corn syrup, granulated sugar, flavoring extract, and food coloring (if using). This forms the base liquid for the candy crystals.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the mixture starts to boil. Once boiling begins, stop stirring to prevent crystallization.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: While the mixture heats, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray. Set this aside for pouring the hot candy mixture later.
- Boil to Hard Crack Stage: Insert a candy thermometer into the boiling liquid. Monitor the temperature closely and remove the pan from heat once it reaches 300°F (the hard crack stage), essential for the rock candy texture.
- Cool Off: Let the hot syrup cool slightly until bubbles on the surface stop breaking. This indicates it is ready to be poured and solidified.
- Pour and Set: Carefully pour the cooled syrup onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly.
- Cool Completely: Allow the syrup to cool fully and harden at room temperature without disturbance.
- Break Into Pieces: Once hardened, break the candy into chunks or desired sizes for serving or packaging.
Notes
- Do not stir the sugar syrup once it starts boiling to prevent premature crystallization.
- Use a candy thermometer for best results to reach the correct temperature.
- Customize flavor and color with your favorite extracts and food coloring.
- Be cautious when handling hot syrup as it can cause burns.
- Store the rock candy in an airtight container to maintain crispness and prevent moisture absorption.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: rock candy, homemade candy, crystallized sugar, candy recipe, stovetop candy
