Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 tsp orange extract
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Orange food coloring
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Candy molds (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Do not stir the mixture while it boils.
3. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and continue boiling the mixture until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the orange and vanilla extracts and a few drops of orange food coloring.
5. Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into candy molds.
6. Let the candy cool completely and then break it into pieces.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and cornstarch. Roll the candy pieces in the mixture to prevent them from sticking together.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
300°F (hard crack stage)
Serving size:
Makes about 1 pound of candy
Nutritional information:
Calories: 120 per serving
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Orange extract can be substituted with any other flavor extract.
- Light corn syrup can be substituted with honey or agave nectar.
- Granulated sugar can be substituted with brown sugar or coconut sugar.
Variations:
- Use different food coloring to create different colors of rock candy.
- Add edible glitter or sprinkles to the candy mixture for added decoration.
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup as it can cause severe burns.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the candy reaches the correct temperature.
- If the candy is too hard, reduce the cooking time slightly. If it is too soft, increase the cooking time slightly.
Storage instructions:
Store the rock candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
Not applicable
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the rock candy in a clear jar or container to show off the colors.
- Use the candy as a decoration for cakes or cupcakes.
Garnishes:
- Edible glitter or sprinkles
- Orange zest
Pairings:
- Serve the rock candy with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Suggested side dishes:
- Not applicable
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the candy is too sticky, roll it in more powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture.
- If the candy is too hard, reduce the cooking time slightly. If it is too soft, increase the cooking time slightly.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup as it can cause severe burns.
- Do not touch the candy until it has cooled completely.
Food history:
Rock candy has been around for centuries and was originally made using honey. It was a popular treat in ancient Greece and Rome.
Flavor profiles:
Sweet and citrusy
Serving suggestions:
Serve the rock candy as a sweet treat or use it as a decoration for cakes or cupcakes.
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