Name: Sweeten Your Day: A Delightful Crystal Candy Recipe You’ll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup fresh juice (think lemon, orange, or grape—whatever tickles your taste buds); 1/4 teaspoon food coloring (optional); Candy thermometer; Wooden sticks or strings (for hanging)

Description

Crystal candy recipe is the perfect treat for your sweet tooth! Quick, easy, and delightful, this candy will become your go-to for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

- 2 cups granulated sugar

- 1 cup water

- 1/2 cup fresh juice (think lemon, orange, or grape—whatever tickles your taste buds)

- 1/4 teaspoon food coloring (optional)

- Candy thermometer

- Wooden sticks or strings (for hanging)

Instructions

1. Prep Your Workspace: Start by organizing your ingredients and tools. You want a smooth sailing ride into candy land! It’s amazing how a little prep can minimize chaos, especially if mini-chefs (ahem, your kiddos) are in tow!

1. Heat Things Up!: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Over medium heat, stir until the sugar dissolves. Then, bring it to a boil. Watch it closely! Candy making is like a suspense movie—you’ll want to catch the excitement without getting burned (literally).

1. Juicy Addition: Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, it’s time to add that fresh juice. If you’re feeling jazzy, toss in a few drops of food coloring to give your candy some personality! Stir gently and watch that color come to life.

1. Candy Thermometer Time: Stick your candy thermometer into the liquid (not touching the bottom) and let it cook undisturbed until it reaches the hard crack stage—about 300°F (150°C). This should take around 10-15 minutes, and if you get distracted by Netflix, remember: Candy waits for no one!

1. Pour and Cool: Remove the pot from heat and immediately pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow it to cool for about 3-5 minutes. Before it hardens completely, insert your wooden sticks or strings, leaving enough space for your candy to take shape.

1. Let’s Play the Waiting Game: Now, let it sit and harden for several hours, preferably overnight. I know, waiting can be tough! Use this time to binge-watch your favorite series or plan how to present your sparkling treats.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 lollipop
Calories: 135

Keywords: homemade hard candy, fruit lollipops, hard candy recipe, homemade lollipops, hard crack candy