📝 About This Recipe
Step back into a world of scientific wonder with this classic confection that transforms simple pantry staples into edible gemstones. Rock candy is a marvel of chemistry, utilizing a supersaturated sugar solution to grow oversized, crunchable crystals over several days. Whether flavored with nostalgic cotton candy or sophisticated violet, these sparkling wands offer a pure, sweet crunch that has delighted sweet-tooths for centuries.
🥗 Ingredients
The Sugar Base
- 4 cups Granulated white sugar (pure cane sugar works best for clarity)
- 2 cups Filtered water (clean water ensures the best crystal growth)
Flavor and Color
- 1/2 teaspoon Candy flavoring oil (such as raspberry, peppermint, or lemon)
- 2-3 drops Liquid food coloring (gel colors can be used but liquid disperses easier here)
The Equipment
- 6-8 pieces Wooden skewers or cotton string (6-inch length is ideal)
- 6-8 pieces Clothespins (to hold the skewers in place)
- 6-8 pieces Glass jars (narrow, tall jars like 12oz jelly jars)
- 2 tablespoons Extra sugar for 'seeding' (to coat the sticks)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Prepare your skewers by dipping the bottom 4 inches of each wooden stick into water, then rolling them in a plate of dry granulated sugar. This 'seeds' the sticks, providing a foundation for the crystals to grab onto. Let these dry completely for at least 30 minutes before starting the syrup.
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2
In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the 2 cups of filtered water and 4 cups of sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
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3
Increase the heat and bring the sugar solution to a light boil. Continue to stir to ensure all sugar crystals on the sides of the pan are incorporated.
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4
Once the solution is boiling and perfectly clear, remove the pan from the heat. This is now a supersaturated solution.
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5
Allow the syrup to cool for approximately 15-20 minutes. If you add flavoring or color while it is boiling hot, the flavors may dissipate and the color may change.
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6
Stir in your chosen flavoring oil and food coloring. Remember that the color will look darker in the jar than it will on the finished crystals.
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7
Carefully pour the warm syrup into your clean glass jars, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
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8
Lower a 'seeded' skewer into each jar. The stick should be suspended in the middle of the jar, not touching the bottom or the sides.
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9
Secure the skewer in place by clipping a clothespin across the top of the jar, holding the stick vertically.
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10
Place the jars in a cool, quiet place where they won't be bumped or moved. Vibrations can disturb the crystal growth process.
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11
Cover the tops of the jars loosely with a paper towel to keep dust out while still allowing evaporation.
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12
Wait patiently for 5 to 7 days. You will see crystals beginning to form on the stick within the first 24 hours.
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13
Once the crystals have reached your desired size, gently crack the top layer of hardened sugar that may have formed on the surface of the liquid.
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14
Remove the skewer and gently rinse the crystals under a very light stream of cool water for just a second to remove the sticky excess syrup.
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15
Hang the finished rock candy in an empty jar or over a plate to dry for 1-2 hours before eating or wrapping in cellophane.
💡 Chef's Tips
Ensure your jars are 'squeaky clean' as any dust or residue will cause crystals to grow on the glass instead of the stick. Never let the skewer touch the bottom of the jar; if it does, the candy will be stuck and the stick will break when you try to remove it. If a thick crust forms on the top of the liquid, gently break it with a toothpick so the water can continue to evaporate. Be patient—moving the jars or stirring the liquid during the week will result in smaller, less impressive crystals. Use only candy-specific flavoring oils rather than extracts, as the alcohol in extracts can interfere with the syrup stability.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve as a sophisticated sweetener for hot tea or coffee service. Use as a decorative garnish for a 'Frozen' themed birthday cake or cupcakes. Wrap in clear cellophane with a silk ribbon for a charming, homemade wedding or party favor. Place a clear crystal wand in a glass of sparkling champagne for a touch of whimsical sweetness. Crush the crystals and use them as 'edible diamonds' to decorate the rim of a cocktail glass.