Candied Strawberry Tanghulu (Printable)

Juicy strawberries enrobed in a crackly candy shell for a glossy, crisp snack with irresistible crunch.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruit

01 - 16 fresh strawberries, stems removed, washed, and thoroughly dried

→ Sugar Syrup

02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup water
04 - 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar or 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to prevent crystallization)

# How to make it:

01 - Remove stems from the strawberries, wash carefully, and dry thoroughly with paper towels. Thread two strawberries onto each skewer.
02 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to hold the finished skewers.
03 - In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, and cream of tartar or lemon juice if using. Gently stir to mix, then place over medium heat.
04 - Allow the syrup to boil without further stirring until it reaches 302°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. The syrup should appear clear and not caramelized.
05 - Remove the pan from heat. Quickly dip each strawberry skewer into the hot syrup, rotating to coat evenly. Let excess syrup drip off.
06 - Place the candied skewers on the prepared baking sheet to cool and harden. Serve as soon as possible for maximum crunch.

# Recipe Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in under half an hour from start to finish
  • Uses just three ingredients you probably already have
  • No special candy skills required to get that signature crisp crack
  • Fun to make with friends or kids on a rainy afternoon
02 -
  • Tanghulu is naturally gluten free and vegetarian
  • You can substitute other firm fruits like grapes or tangerine segments
  • These taste best within one to two hours of making because humidity can soften the sugar shell
03 -
  • Measure your water and sugar exactly so the syrup hits the right temperature for that snap
  • A candy thermometer is your best friend since the difference between syrup and caramel is just a degree or two
  • Patience is key let the syrup finish boiling before dipping to avoid a sticky chewy shell rather than a crisp one
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