Description
Crystal Clear Hard Candy is a nostalgic, glossy, and crisp homemade treat that’s simple to make and completely customizable with different flavors and colors. Perfect for gifts, parties, or everyday snacking.
Ingredients
1 cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup water
⅓ cup clear corn syrup
≈40–45 drops food coloring (liquid works best; adjust for color intensity)
½–¾ tsp flavoring extract (peppermint, vanilla, fruit, etc.) or ¼ tsp flavor oil
Powdered sugar or cornstarch for coating (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a sheet pan by sifting powdered sugar or cornstarch over it, or lining it with a greased silicone mat or greased parchment paper.
- In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Stir gently until dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat without stirring and cook until it reaches the hard crack stage (300°F / 149°C) using a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 30 seconds. Quickly stir in your chosen flavoring and food coloring.
- Pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared sheet and spread evenly with an offset spatula.
- Optional: Sprinkle additional powdered sugar or cornstarch on top. Let the candy cool completely for about 30 minutes.
- Once hardened, brush off excess powder and break candy into bite-sized pieces using a mallet or sharp knife.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature, away from humidity.
Notes
Flavor oils are more concentrated than extracts — use less when substituting.
Store in a dry place to prevent stickiness due to humidity.
To prevent clumping, toss finished pieces in powdered sugar or cornstarch before storing.
Work quickly when pouring into molds, as the candy sets fast.
For visual flair, swirl in multiple colors or sprinkle with edible glitter before setting.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Boiled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 22
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5.5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
