Recipe For Rock Candy With Corn Syrup
Introduction: What Is Rock Candy?
Rock candy is a type of confectionery that is made by crystalizing sugar. It is a popular treat because of its sweet taste and crunchy texture. The candy gets its name from its appearance - it often looks like small rocks or crystals. You can make rock candy at home with just a few simple ingredients, and it's a fun activity to do with kids or friends.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make rock candy with corn syrup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon flavored extract (such as vanilla or mint)
- Few drops of food coloring (optional)
- Small glass jars or containers
- Wooden skewers or popsicle sticks
- Clothespins or paperclips
Step-By-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make your own rock candy:
Step 1: Prepare Your Jars
Wash your glass jars or containers with hot soapy water and dry them completely. Then, attach a clothespin or paperclip to the middle of a wooden skewer or popsicle stick. Rest the skewer or stick on top of the jar so that the clothespin or paperclip is holding it in place. Make sure the skewer or stick is suspended in the middle of the jar and not touching the sides or bottom.
Step 2: Make Your Sugar Syrup
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Once the sugar has dissolved, turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Add Flavoring and Coloring (Optional)
If you want to add flavoring or food coloring to your rock candy, now is the time to do it. Stir in your preferred flavoring extract and a few drops of food coloring until the mixture is evenly colored and flavored.
Step 4: Pour the Mixture into Your Jars
Carefully pour the hot sugar syrup into your prepared jars, making sure to fill them no more than halfway. Be very careful not to splash the hot syrup, as it can cause serious burns.
Step 5: Wait for Crystalization
Let the jars cool to room temperature and then cover them with a paper towel or cheesecloth to keep dust and debris out. Leave the jars undisturbed for 3-7 days, depending on how large you want your rock candy crystals to be. As the sugar syrup cools, sugar crystals will start to form on the skewer or stick.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Rock Candy
Once the crystals have formed to your liking, carefully remove the skewers or sticks from the jars and let them dry completely. Then, break off any excess sugar crystals and enjoy your homemade rock candy!
Tips and Tricks
- Be very careful when working with hot sugar syrup, as it can cause severe burns. Use oven mitts or gloves to protect your hands.
- If you want larger sugar crystals, leave the jars undisturbed for a longer period of time.
- You can experiment with different flavors and colors to create your own unique rock candy.
- If your sugar syrup is not crystalizing, try adding more sugar or reducing the amount of water.
- Store your finished rock candy in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Conclusion: Homemade Rock Candy Is Easy and Fun
Making rock candy with corn syrup is a fun and easy activity that anyone can enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create your very own sweet and crunchy treat. Whether you're looking for a fun activity to do with kids, or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings, homemade rock candy is the perfect treat. So why not give it a try?