Soul Food

Cinnamon Rock Candy Delight

 
Instructions: 
 
1. Prepare Your Pan: Butter a 15×10 inch sheet cake pan. Line it with parchment paper, then butter the paper. Make sure the edges are wellbuttered to prevent any sticky situations!
2. Heat the Mixture: In a large deep saucepan, combine water, sugar, corn syrup, and food coloring. Heat over mediumhigh until the sugar dissolves. Attach a candy thermometer, ensuring it doesn’t touch the pan’s bottom. Bring to a boil until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) – about 20 minutes. Tip: Keep an eye on it; if it bubbles too high, remove it from heat and stir until settled.
3. Add Flavor: Once at 300°F, quickly remove the pan from heat and stir in the cinnamon oil. Caution: The aroma is potent! Make sure your area is wellventilated. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan. Let it cool for 4 hours patience pays off!
4. Cut and Dust: After cooling, dust the top with powdered sugar. Flip the candy onto a cutting board and remove the parchment. Back in the pan, use a sharp knife to break it into bitesized pieces. Dust with more powdered sugar for that sweet finish!
5. Storage Note: Keep your candy in an airtight container to maintain its delightful crunch.
 
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Rock Candy Delight:
This candy is a perfect blend of spicy and sweet, with a bold cinnamon flavor and a satisfying, crunchy texture. Its festive red color makes it a hit for holidays, and the simple recipe makes it easy to whip up at home. Plus, it’s customizable—perfect for impressing friends and family with a unique treat!
 
 

Tips for Success:

  • Monitor the Temperature: Use a candy thermometer to ensure you hit 300°F for the perfect hard-crack stage.
  • Ventilate for Cinnamon Oil: The cinnamon aroma can be strong, so ensure good airflow to keep it comfortable while cooking.
  • Safety First: Hot sugar can burn! Be cautious around the hot mixture, and keep kids at a safe distance.
  • Dust Generously: Powdered sugar prevents sticking and adds a beautiful finish—don’t skip this step!

Variations to Try:

  • Peppermint Rock Candy: Swap cinnamon oil for peppermint for a refreshing twist.
  • Fruit Flavors: Experiment with lemon or orange oil for a fruity option.
  • Color Customization: Adjust the food coloring to match any holiday theme or personal preference—green for a minty version or blue for a wintery touch.

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