Did you know that cinnamon rock candy has been a beloved treat for generations? It’s that delightful crunch combined with a spicy kick that makes it so special. I first discovered this sweet gem during a family get-together when my aunt brought a batch that filled the room with the warm aroma of cinnamon. The moment I tasted it, I was hooked! The intense flavor and satisfying crunch create an experience that’s both nostalgic and exhilarating. Whether enjoyed on its own or used to jazz up your favorite dessert, cinnamon rock candy is a simple yet extraordinary treat that’s sure to impress. Trust me, once you try making it at home, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Rock Candy

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the perfect cinnamon rock candy. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups granulated sugar: This is the base of your candy, bringing that sweet crunch we all love.
1 cup water: Helps dissolve the sugar and create that smooth candy texture.
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon extract: This is where the magic happens! It infuses your candy with that warm, spicy flavor.
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar: Helps prevent sugar crystallization, ensuring your candy is nice and smooth.
Red food coloring (optional): If you want to give your candy a festive pop of color, this is a fun addition!

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking—trust me, it makes the process much smoother!

How to Prepare Cinnamon Rock Candy

Making cinnamon rock candy is a fun and straightforward process! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have delicious, crunchy treats in no time. Ready to get that sugar bubbling? Let’s dive in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar. This combination is the foundation of your candy!
Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar completely dissolves—don’t rush this step! It usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Bring to a Boil: Once the sugar has dissolved, bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. You want to avoid disturbing the sugar syrup at this point, so just let it bubble away. Keep an eye on it, as it can boil up quickly!
Monitor Temperature: Using a candy thermometer, watch that temperature closely! You’re aiming for 300°F (hard crack stage). This can take around 10-15 minutes, so patience is key here. The syrup should look clear and glossy.
Add Flavor and Color: As soon as you hit 300°F, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon extract and the optional red food coloring, if you’re using it. Be careful—it’ll be very hot!
Pour and Cool: Quickly pour the hot mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it as evenly as you can. Now, let it cool completely at room temperature. This usually takes about 30-45 minutes.
Break into Pieces: Once cooled, you can break your cinnamon rock candy into bite-sized pieces. Use a hammer or the back of a spoon for a satisfying crunch!

And there you have it! Your homemade cinnamon rock candy is ready to enjoy. Just remember, the key to success here is patience and attention to detail. Happy candy making!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients!
The warm, spicy flavor of cinnamon will have your taste buds dancing.
Perfect for sharing with friends and family during holidays or gatherings.
Making your own candy is a fun kitchen project that’s great for kids!
You can customize it with different colors and flavors for any occasion.

Tips for Success

To ensure your cinnamon rock candy turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips I swear by! First off, always use a heavy-bottomed saucepan; it helps distribute heat evenly and reduces the risk of burning. When you’re heating that sugar mixture, keep a close eye on the temperature—using a candy thermometer is crucial! Remember, you want to reach exactly 300°F for that ideal hard crack stage. Also, if you’re planning to use food coloring, add it immediately after removing the pan from heat to keep the colors vibrant! Lastly, let your candy cool completely before breaking it apart; this will give you that satisfying crunch. Trust me, these little details make all the difference!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! A typical serving size of cinnamon rock candy is one piece, and here’s what you can expect in terms of nutrition:

Calories: 70
Sugar: 15g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Sodium: 0mg
Fat: 0g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates, so they may vary based on how you make your candy. But wow, isn’t it amazing how something so sweet can pack a flavorful punch? Enjoy every crunchy, spicy bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve made your delicious cinnamon rock candy, storing it properly is key to keeping that delightful crunch! Place your leftover pieces in an airtight container to prevent moisture from seeping in. I like to add a small piece of parchment paper between layers for extra protection. Keep the container in a cool, dry place, and your candy should last for up to two weeks—if you can resist eating it all at once! No reheating is necessary; just enjoy it straight from the container for that perfect sweet and spicy treat!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making cinnamon rock candy? No worries, I’ve got you covered with answers to some common queries!

Can I use different extracts?
Absolutely! If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping cinnamon extract for other flavors like vanilla or even almond for a unique twist. Just adjust the amount to your taste.

What if my candy crystallizes?
If you notice your candy has crystallized, don’t panic! It might be because of stirring too much while it’s boiling. Just take it back to the heat, add a little water, and let it dissolve again. Patience is key!

How can I make this candy without a thermometer?
You can perform the cold water test! Just drop a small amount of the syrup into cold water—if it forms a hard ball, you’re good to go!

Can I add nuts or other toppings?
For sure! If you want to elevate your cinnamon rock candy, sprinkle some finely chopped nuts or even crushed candies on top before it cools. It adds a lovely texture!

How do I store leftover candy?
Just keep your cinnamon rock candy in an airtight container, and it should stay fresh for up to two weeks. But let’s be honest—it’s probably going to disappear way before then!

Cinnamon Rock Candy: 7 Irresistible Steps to Make It

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 1 pound 1x
Category: Candy
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Cinnamon rock candy is a sweet treat made with sugar and flavored with cinnamon. It offers a delightful crunch and a spicy kick.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon extract
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
Red food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Combine sugar, water, and cream of tartar in a saucepan.
Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature until it reaches 300°F.
Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon extract and food coloring.
Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Allow it to cool completely before breaking into pieces.

Notes

Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Experiment with different colors for visual appeal.
Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 70
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 0mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cinnamon rock candy

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