Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or a festive celebration, these colorful, crunchy, and juicy treats will add a sweet spot to any occasion.
Table of Contents
What Are Candied Strawberries?
Candied strawberries are exactly what they sound like—ripe, juicy strawberries encased in a shiny, crunchy sugar shell. This delightful treat blends the natural sweetness of strawberries with a hard candy coating, resulting in a dessert that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. It’s a bit like fairground candy apples but daintier and even more appealing.
Where To Start?
Washing Your Strawberries
Alright, let’s start with the basics. Clean strawberries are key to a successful candying experience. Here’s how to make sure your strawberries are squeaky clean:
1. Rinse: Place your strawberries in a colander and give them a good rinse under cool, running water.
2. Pat Dry: Use a paper towel to gently pat them dry. Remember, any water left on the strawberries can interfere with the candying process.
3. Hull If Desired: Some folks prefer to hull their strawberries—removing the green leafy top and white core. It’s up to you! I prefer to keep it on as it is more visually appealing.
Prepping Strawberries for Dipping
Now that our strawberries are ready, let’s prep them for their sugary transformation:
1. Skewer: Gently insert a toothpick or skewer into the top of each strawberry. This makes it easier to dip them in the candy mixture.
2. Line a Tray: Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This is where your freshly-dipped strawberries will rest and harden.
3. Cooling Area: Have a spot ready in your kitchen where the dipped strawberries can cool undisturbed.
Key Ingredients
Strawberries: Fresh and ripe, preferably medium-sized.
Granulated Sugar: The base of our candy coating.
Light Corn Syrup: Helps prevent crystallization and keeps the candy smooth.
Water: Essential for dissolving sugar.
Flavoring: Vanilla extract, lemon juice, etc. (your choice!). I love to go with a peach or watermelon flavoring by LorAnn Oils.
Red Food Coloring: Optional, but adds that iconic candy-red sheen.
Events and Holidays Perfect for Candied Strawberries
Candied strawberries are versatile and fit right in at several events and holidays. Here’s a quick list of occasions where these vibrant treats shine:
Valentine’s Day: Red, shiny, and delicious. Need we say more?
Birthday Parties: A fun and tasty addition to any dessert table.
Holiday Parties: Deck your holiday spread with these jeweled bites.
Weddings: Elegant and sweet, perfect for any wedding dessert bar.
Baby Showers: Delightful treats that guests will be sure to remember.
Summer Picnics: A delightful and refreshing treat to cool down on a hot day.
Storage and Shelf Life
After you have made your sweet creations, you will want to store them properly to keep them fresh:
Cooling: Allow the strawberries to cool completely at room temperature.
Single Layer: Store them in an airtight container in a single layer to prevent sticking.
Shelf Life: Candied strawberries are best enjoyed within 1-2 days.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Fresh strawberries are best, as frozen ones can become too watery when thawed.
Q: My candy coating is sticky, what did I do wrong?
A: The candy mixture may not have reached the right temperature. Make sure it hits 300°F on a candy thermometer.
Q: Can I make these without corn syrup?
A: Light corn syrup helps prevent crystallization. You can experiment with honey or golden syrup, but the results may vary.
Q: Do I have to use a skewer?
A: No, but it makes dipping easier, safer and cleaner. You could also use a fork or simply hold the green tops.
Q: What other fruits can I candy?
A: While strawberries are classic, you can candy grapes, apple slices, or even kiwi!
There you have it—a laid-back, sweet journey into the world of candied strawberries. Enjoy the process, get creative, and most importantly, savor every crunchy, juicy bite!
Candied Strawberries: A Sweet Treat for Every Occasion
Course: Dessert8
servings15
minutes20
minutesCandied strawberries are exactly what they sound like—ripe, juicy strawberries encased in a shiny, crunchy sugar shell. This delightful treat blends the natural sweetness of strawberries with a hard candy coating, resulting in a dessert that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
16 fresh strawberries
1 c granulated sugar
1/2 c water
1/4 c light corn syrup
1/2 tsp red food coloring
1/2 tsp flavor extract of your choice
- Equipment
toothpicks or skewers
candy thermometer
parchment paper or silicone baking mat
saucepan
silicon or wooden spatula
Directions
- Prep Your Strawberries
- Wash the strawberries under cool running water and pat them dry completely with a paper towel.
- Gently insert a toothpick or skewer into the top of each strawberry.
- Prepare Your Work Area
- Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat where your dipped strawberries will rest and harden.
- Make the Candy Coating
- In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, and light corn syrup.
- Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, stop stirring. Remember, “If it ain’t sweet, it ain’t a treat!”
- Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Allow the mixture to boil (without stirring) until it reaches 300°F (the hard crack stage). This can take about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add red food coloring and your chosen flavor extract. Stir gently to combine.
- Quickly dip each strawberry into the candy mixture, making sure to coat it fully. Let the excess drip off.
- Place the coated strawberries on the lined baking sheet. Let them cool and harden at room temperature, which should take about 30 minutes.
- They’re best eaten the same day but can be stored for up to 1-2 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
Notes
- Be Quick: The candy mixture hardens fast, so work quickly when dipping. If it starts to thicken, you can gently reheat it on low.
- Safety First: Be cautious when working with hot sugar. It can cause serious burns.
- Purchase a silicon candy cup to pour the hot candy in to make it easier to dip and easy clean up.
