Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon oil
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Red food coloring (optional)
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Saucepan
- Candy molds or parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cream of tartar. Stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Place the saucepan on medium heat and let the mixture come to a boil. Do not stir the mixture once it starts boiling.
3. Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and let it boil until it reaches 300°F.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add cinnamon oil, cayenne pepper, and red food coloring (if using) to the mixture. Stir well.
6. Pour the mixture into candy molds or onto parchment paper. Let it cool and harden for 30 minutes.
7. Once the candy has hardened, remove it from the molds or break it into pieces if using parchment paper.
8. Store the candy in an airtight container.
Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
300°F
Serving size:
Makes about 20 pieces of candy
Nutritional information:
Calories: 80
Total Fat: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Total Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Cinnamon oil can be substituted with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- Cayenne pepper can be substituted with chili powder or paprika.
Variations:
- Instead of cinnamon oil, use peppermint or orange oil for a different flavor.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the candy mixture before pouring it into molds.
Tips and tricks:
- Use caution when working with hot sugar syrup.
- If the candy mixture hardens before you can pour it into molds, reheat it on low heat until it becomes liquid again.
Storage instructions:
- Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- If the candy becomes sticky or soft, place it in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to re-harden it.
Presentation ideas:
- Place the candy in a clear jar or container for a colorful display.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle the candy with edible glitter or colored sugar for added sparkle.
Pairings:
- Serve the candy with hot cocoa or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
- None
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the candy turns out too hard, reduce the cooking time by a few minutes.
- If the candy turns out too soft, increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot sugar syrup.
- Keep the candy away from children under 3 years old, as it can pose a choking hazard.
Food history:
- Rock candy has been around since ancient times and was used as a natural sweetener.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, spicy, and cinnamon-y.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the candy as a sweet and spicy treat or as a party favor.
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