Name: Cinnamon Rock Candy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-488151H27M26S
Total time: PT-488151H27M26S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups granulated sugar; 1 cup water; 1 tablespoon light corn syrup; 1 teaspoon cinnamon extract; 1 drop red food coloring (optional); 1 wooden skewer or string (for hanging the candy)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cinnamon Rock Candy is not only delicious, but it’s also simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients. The cinnamon flavor is bold, providing just the right amount of spice to complement the sweetness of the candy. The candy is crunchy and satisfying, and it can be made ahead of time to enjoy for weeks. It’s a perfect homemade gift or a unique addition to your candy stash. Plus, making candy at home lets you control the ingredients and adjust the sweetness and spice level to your liking.

Cinnamon Rock Candy

Ingredients

3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water
1 tablespoon light corn syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon extract
1 drop red food coloring (optional)
1 wooden skewer or string (for hanging the candy)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, dip them in water and then coat them with a little sugar. This helps the crystals form on the skewer later. If you’re using string, tie it to a pencil or stick for easy hanging.
Make the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves. Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring.
Heat the Syrup: Let the syrup continue to boil until it reaches the hard crack stage, which is around 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Add Flavor and Color: Once the syrup reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat. Stir in the cinnamon extract and, if desired, the red food coloring for a festive look.
Pour and Cool: Carefully pour the syrup into a prepared dish or mold (if you’re making individual pieces) or let it cool slightly in the pan before dipping your skewer or string into the syrup. Be cautious as the syrup will be extremely hot.
Set the Candy: Allow the candy to cool and harden. Once it has set, the candy will be rock-hard with a crunchy texture and intense cinnamon flavor.
Enjoy: Once the candy is fully cooled, it’s ready to be enjoyed. If you made individual pieces, you can break them into smaller bits. If you made skewer or string candy, simply cut them into desired lengths.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 12-15 pieces of candy, depending on the size of the pieces or how many skewers you use. The preparation time is around 20 minutes, with cooling and setting taking about 2-3 hours to ensure the candy hardens properly.

Variations

Flavor Options: You can switch out the cinnamon extract for other flavors such as peppermint, lemon, or vanilla for a different taste.
Color: Use different food coloring to match holidays or themes, like green for Christmas or pink for Valentine’s Day.
Size & Shape: Make the candy larger or smaller depending on your preference, or pour it into molds for fun shapes.

Storage/Reheating

Store your Cinnamon Rock Candy in an airtight container at room temperature. It should last for about 2-3 weeks. Avoid storing it in a humid environment, as the candy can become sticky if exposed to moisture.

If the candy becomes too soft or sticky, you can briefly reheat it in the oven at a very low temperature (around 200°F or 90°C) for a few minutes. Just be sure to watch it closely to avoid melting.

FAQs

1. Can I make Cinnamon Rock Candy without a candy thermometer?

Yes, while a candy thermometer helps ensure accuracy, you can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into a glass of cold water. If it hardens into a brittle, crunchy texture, it’s ready.

2. Can I make Cinnamon Rock Candy without corn syrup?

Corn syrup helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing, but if you don’t have any, you can try using honey or glucose syrup as a substitute.

3. How do I store Cinnamon Rock Candy?

Store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep it away from moisture to prevent it from becoming sticky.

4. Can I use other flavor extracts in this recipe?

Yes, you can easily swap the cinnamon extract for other extracts, such as peppermint, vanilla, or fruit flavors.

5. Is this recipe suitable for kids to help with?

Yes, kids can help with the preparation process, but they should stay away from the hot syrup. It’s best for them to assist with the sugar coating or coloring.

6. How can I make Cinnamon Rock Candy without skewers?

You can use string, as long as it’s coated with sugar to help the crystals form. Tie the string to a pencil or stick and hang it into the syrup.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double or halve the recipe as needed. Just make sure to adjust the size of the pan you use and monitor the syrup temperature closely.

8. How long does it take for the candy to harden?

It typically takes 2-3 hours for the candy to fully harden. Ensure the candy cools completely before handling.

9. Can I add more cinnamon flavor to the candy?

Yes, you can increase the cinnamon extract for a stronger flavor, but be cautious, as too much extract may affect the candy’s texture.

10. Can I freeze Cinnamon Rock Candy?

It’s best not to freeze Cinnamon Rock Candy, as freezing can alter the texture and make it sticky once thawed. Store it at room temperature for the best results.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Rock Candy is a fun, flavorful treat that’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re creating it as a gift, a holiday treat, or just something special to enjoy, this homemade candy will delight anyone who loves a bit of spice with their sweetness. With its crunchy texture and bold cinnamon flavor, it’s a candy that’s sure to stand out.