There’s something nostalgically comforting about making your own cinnamon rock candy at home. Not only does this sweet treat captivate with its fiery zest and satisfying crunch, but it’s also surprisingly simple to prepare with a little patience and a few pantry staples.

When I was a child, my grandmother used to make cinnamon rock candy during the holidays. The entire house would fill with the spicy-sweet aroma of cinnamon as she cooked the sugar to just the right temperature. I remember her smile as she poured the molten liquid into molds, creating festive candies that sparkled like tiny jewels. It was a tradition that brought our family together and remains one of my fondest memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cinnamon rock candy recipe is easy to follow and requires only a few simple ingredients. Its bold cinnamon flavor is a delightful treat for spice lovers, and it provides a fun project to involve the whole family in the cooking process. Plus, homemade rock candy makes for a charming homemade gift, perfect for holidays and special occasions.

Ingredients Notes

The key ingredients you will need include sugar, water, corn syrup, and cinnamon oil. You can find cinnamon oil at most health food stores or online. Alternatively, cinnamon extract can be used if oil is unavailable. To add some color to your candy, use a few drops of red food coloring.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Prepare your work area by lining a baking sheet with foil and spraying it with nonstick spray. This will ensure that the candy doesn’t stick when it’s cooling.

Step 2

In a saucepan, mix two cups of sugar, 1/2 cup of water, and 1/3 cup of corn syrup. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, over medium heat.

Step 3

Once the sugar mixture has dissolved, stop stirring, and allow it to reach 300°F using a candy thermometer. Keep a close eye on the temperature to prevent burning.

Step 4

Remove from heat and carefully add one teaspoon of cinnamon oil and a few drops of red food coloring. Stir gently to combine.

Step 5

Quickly pour the molten sugar onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Allow the candy to cool completely before breaking it into pieces.

Storage Options

Store your cinnamon rock candy in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, place it in a sealed freezer bag and freeze for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the candy at room temperature.

Variations & Substitutions

If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, try substituting with peppermint oil for a refreshing mint flavor. You can also experiment with different food colorings to match the season or a specific occasion.

Serving Suggestions

This cinnamon rock candy makes a beautiful addition to any holiday dessert spread. Serve it alongside a hot cup of cocoa or bag it up for gifts that will warm anyone’s heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this candy without a candy thermometer? While it’s possible, using a candy thermometer ensures that you reach the precise temperature needed for perfect candy consistency. Without it, there’s a risk of undercooking or burning the sugar.

What if I can’t find cinnamon oil? If cinnamon oil isn’t available, you can use cinnamon extract, although the flavor will be slightly milder. Adjust the amount to taste.

Can I make rock candy in different shapes? Certainly! Pour the hot candy mixture into silicone molds of any shape immediately after cooking, before it hardens, for specially themed candies.

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