Cinnamon Rock Candy
It’s that time of year again when the holiday spirit fills the air, and the kitchen becomes a haven for creating homemade gifts. While I usually find myself baking cookies, bread, or rolls, this year I’ve decided to go for something simpler yet equally festive. Enter the Cinnamon Rock Candy—a delightful, old-fashioned treat that’s sure to add a burst of color and flavor to any holiday gift basket.
There’s something magical about these candies. Their vibrant red hue and the dusting of powdered sugar make them look like little jewels in a glass jar. With a combination of sweetness and a spicy kick, they’re a crowd-pleaser for anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for cinnamon. Plus, they make fantastic gifts for teachers, coworkers, neighbors, or anyone you want to spread a little holiday cheer to.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cinnamon Rock Candy is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make with just six ingredients. It’s perfect for gifting or simply enjoying at home. Plus, you can get creative with different flavors by using LorAnn’s Flavoring Oils. Imagine a range of colors and flavors like orange, strawberry, peppermint, and more!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 15 inch x 10 inch x 1 inch sheet cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Large deep saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Sharp knife
- Large cutting board or cookie sheet
- Airtight container
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 3 3/4 cups sugar
- 1 1/4 cups light corn syrup
- 1 tsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp cinnamon oil (2 tsp if you like it spicy)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- Butter, for greasing the surface
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Butter a 15 inch x 10 inch x 1 inch sheet cake pan. Line it with parchment paper and butter the parchment as well, especially the edges to prevent the candy from seeping underneath.
- In a large deep saucepan, combine water, sugar, corn syrup, and food coloring. Heat over medium-high until the sugar dissolves. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom. Continue boiling until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), approximately 20 minutes. If the mixture starts to boil too close to the edge, remove from heat, stir to subside bubbles, then return to medium-high heat.
- Once the mixture reaches 300°F, remove from heat and quickly stir in the cinnamon oil. Be cautious, as the aroma is strong. Pour into the prepared pan immediately. Allow to cool for 4 hours.
- After cooling, dust the top of the candy with powdered sugar. Flip the candy onto a large cutting board or cookie sheet, remove the parchment paper, and break it into bite-sized pieces using the tip of a sharp knife. Dust with more powdered sugar and store in an airtight container.
Tips for Success
Ensure your candy thermometer is accurate and doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan for a correct reading. Work quickly when adding the cinnamon oil, as the mixture will start to harden fast. Keeping the area well-ventilated will help with the strong aroma.
Additional Tips and Variations
Experiment with different flavors and colors using LorAnn’s Flavoring Oils. Match the color to the flavor for a festive assortment.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This candy is a sweet treat, so enjoy it in moderation as part of your balanced diet. The exact nutritional values will depend on the size of the pieces you create.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make rock candy in other flavors?
Absolutely! Try flavors like cherry, lemon, or grape. Just adjust the food coloring to match your chosen flavor.
How should I store the candy?
Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from becoming sticky.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Rock Candy is a must-try for holiday gift-giving or simply enjoying with your family. Its vibrant color and bold flavor make it a standout treat. Give it a go and share your results with friends and family. Happy candy making!
