Cinnamon rock candy is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of sugar with the warm, spicy flavor of cinnamon. This festive candy is perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With its vibrant red color and satisfying crunch, it’s sure to be a hit at any celebration.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This cinnamon rock candy is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. It brings a unique twist to traditional candy recipes, making it an exciting addition to your holiday treats. The bold flavor of cinnamon combined with the sugary crunch creates a perfect balance that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with family or friends, making it a memorable experience as well as a delicious treat!
Introduction
The holiday season is a time for gathering, celebrating, and indulging in sweet treats. Cinnamon rock candy captures the essence of this festive spirit with its rich flavor and striking appearance. Whether you’re looking to add a special touch to your dessert table or searching for a homemade gift idea, this rock candy is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create a batch of this delightful candy that will be cherished by all who taste it.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 3 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1 to 2 teaspoons cinnamon oil (adjust for spice level)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Butter (for greasing)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Begin by buttering a 15x10x1-inch sheet cake pan. Line the bottom and sides with parchment paper, ensuring to butter the parchment well. This step is crucial as it prevents the candy from sticking to the pan, making it easier to remove once it’s set.
Step 2: Make the Candy Base
In a large saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and red food coloring. Stir the mixture over medium-high heat until the sugar begins to dissolve. This process is essential for creating a smooth candy base.
Step 3: Heat to Hard Crack Stage
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and continue to cook until it reaches 300°F, known as the hard crack stage. This step typically takes about 20 minutes. Keep a close eye on the mixture, and if it begins to rise too close to the edge, briefly remove it from the heat to prevent overflow.
Step 4: Add Cinnamon
Once the mixture reaches 300°F, carefully remove it from the heat. Stir in the cinnamon oil, being cautious as it is potent. The aroma will be intoxicating! Quickly pour the hot candy mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Allow it to cool undisturbed for at least 4 hours or until completely set.
Step 5: Break and Dust
After the candy has cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Flip the candy onto a cutting board, peel off the parchment paper, and use a sharp knife to break it into bite-sized pieces. If desired, dust with additional powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Step 6: Store
To maintain the freshness of your cinnamon rock candy, store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature and will stay delicious for weeks, making it perfect for holiday gifting.
Serving Suggestions:
Cinnamon rock candy can be enjoyed on its own or used as a decorative element for holiday desserts. Consider serving it alongside hot cocoa, as a topping for ice cream, or as part of a festive candy platter. It also makes a wonderful gift when packaged in decorative bags or jars.
Tips:
- Cinnamon Oil Adjustment: The amount of cinnamon oil can be adjusted based on your preference for spice. Start with 1 teaspoon and taste the mixture before adding more.
- Safety Precautions: When working with hot sugar mixtures, exercise caution as they can cause burns. Keep children at a safe distance during the cooking process.
- Color Variations: Feel free to experiment with different food coloring to create a variety of colors for different occasions.
- Storage: To keep the candy fresh and prevent it from becoming sticky, ensure it is stored in a cool, dry place.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
4 hours 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 400 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size)
- Protein: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
Conclusion
Cinnamon rock candy is a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of the holidays. Its sweet and spicy flavor, along with its vibrant color, makes it a fantastic addition to any festive gathering. Whether you’re making it for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, this candy is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of making it as much as you enjoy eating it, and share the joy of homemade treats with those you love.
Questions and Answers
- Can I use a different flavor instead of cinnamon oil?
- Yes! You can experiment with other flavors such as peppermint or vanilla. Just be mindful of the potency of the oils you choose.
- How long does the cinnamon rock candy last?
- When stored in an airtight container, the candy can last for several weeks. Just make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place.
- What can I do if my candy doesn’t reach the hard crack stage?
- If the candy doesn’t reach 300°F, it may not set correctly. You can reheat it gently and try to bring it back to the hard crack stage.
- Can I make this candy in advance?
- Absolutely! This candy is perfect for making ahead of time and can be stored for several weeks, making it a great option for holiday preparations.
- Is it possible to adjust the color of the candy?
- Yes! You can adjust the amount of red food coloring or use different colors to create a variety of festive candies for different occasions.