If you’re the kind of person who swoons for spicy-sweet treats, then Cinnamon Rock Candy has your name all over it! This fiery, jewel-bright confection delivers a nostalgic crunch and bold cinnamon kick in every bite—it’s a homemade delight that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re stashing it in jars for holiday gifts or sneaking a piece to brighten up an afternoon, this candy will quickly win a spot in your heart (and pantry). Let’s turn simple pantry staples into a dazzling treat that’s impossible to forget!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in Cinnamon Rock Candy plays a starring role. With just a handful of easily found items, you’ll achieve that signature crackle, vivid color, and irresistibly spicy warmth. Here’s what you’ll need, and why each one matters.
- Granulated sugar: The primary foundation, sugar provides sweetness and crucial structure to your candy.
- Light corn syrup: This keeps the candy from crystallizing and ensures a glossy, snappy texture.
- Water: Acts as the dissolving medium, helping blend ingredients evenly before the sugar boils.
- Cinnamon oil: The star of show! Use with care—it gives the rock candy its intense, aromatic flavor.
- Red food coloring (optional): For that classic, bold cinnamon candy look—but you can leave it out for a more rustic charm.
- Powdered sugar: Dusting the cooled candy pieces with this helps prevent sticking and adds a delicate finish.
How to Make Cinnamon Rock Candy
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it with butter or nonstick spray. This not only ensures easy removal once the candy sets, but also keeps those vibrant shards from sticking, making the whole process a breeze!
Step 2: Combine the Basics
In a heavy saucepan, mix together the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Give it a gentle stir over medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved. The mixture will look crystal clear at this point—don’t rush it; patience now pays off later.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of your pan and crank up the heat to medium-high. Let the mixture boil vigorously (no stirring!) until it reaches a sizzling 300°F, which is what candy makers call the “hard crack” stage. Watch carefully—temperature is everything in achieving the perfect Cinnamon Rock Candy snap!
Step 4: Add Spice and Color
Remove the pan from heat the second it hits 300°F. Immediately add the cinnamon oil and red food coloring. Stir the mixture gently but quickly—the oil is super potent and the aroma will let you know you’re in for a treat! (Be prepared for some strong, delightful cinnamon fumes.)
Step 5: Pour and Cool
Pour your molten candy onto the prepared baking sheet. Tilt the pan to spread the mixture into a thin, even layer—just be careful, as the syrup is extremely hot! Let the candy cool completely before moving to the next step.
Step 6: Break Into Pieces and Dust
Once the candy is totally cool and hardened, break it into shards using a mallet or the back of a sturdy spoon. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, tossing to coat each piece—this little step keeps your Cinnamon Rock Candy pieces from sticking together and adds an extra layer of fun.
How to Serve Cinnamon Rock Candy
Garnishes
Give your Cinnamon Rock Candy a festive finish by tossing the pieces with more powdered sugar right before serving. You can also add a little sparkle with edible glitter or sugar crystals if you’re feeling creative!
Side Dishes
While Cinnamon Rock Candy is delightful on its own, it also makes a brilliant sweet treat alongside coffee, spiced tea, or hot chocolate. For dessert boards, pair it with other confections like chocolate truffles, candied nuts, or even holiday cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation elevates everything! Package your Cinnamon Rock Candy in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon, or fill decorative glass jars for instant gifts. For parties, pile shards into a bowl so guests can grab a piece, or use as a vibrant garnish for cakes and cupcakes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Cinnamon Rock Candy in an airtight container to keep it crisp and fresh. Separate layers with a piece of wax paper to prevent sticking, especially if your kitchen is humid. It’ll hold beautifully for at least two weeks—if it lasts that long!
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for Cinnamon Rock Candy, as moisture from the freezer can cause the pieces to become sticky or lose their signature crunch. Stick to cool, dry storage at room temperature for best results.
Reheating
You don’t need to reheat this candy; it’s meant to be enjoyed at room temperature. If your pieces stick together, you can gently tap them apart or re-dust with a bit more powdered sugar, but avoid microwaving or baking as this will melt the candy.
FAQs
Can I make Cinnamon Rock Candy without a candy thermometer?
While a candy thermometer is highly recommended for accuracy, you can use the “hard crack” test by dropping a bit of the syrup into very cold water—the syrup should form hard, brittle threads that break cleanly when bent. Still, a thermometer gives reliably perfect results.
What’s the difference between cinnamon oil and cinnamon extract?
Cinnamon oil is much more concentrated than extract, resulting in that bold, spicy flavor Cinnamon Rock Candy is famous for. Don’t substitute extract unless you’re prepared for milder candy; if you do, you’ll need more extract for similar punch.
How do I control the heat level?
The beauty of homemade Cinnamon Rock Candy is customizing the spice. Start with the recommended teaspoon of cinnamon oil, and adjust up or down to suit your personal preference. Always add sparingly—too much can be overwhelming!
Is it safe for kids to help with this recipe?
Because the sugar syrup gets incredibly hot, adults should handle boiling and pouring. Kids can help break the cooled candy into pieces and dust with sugar—just be sure to wait until the candy is completely cooled and hardened.
Can I add other flavors or colors?
Absolutely! Once you master Cinnamon Rock Candy, try substituting different oils—like peppermint or clove—or create a colorful batch by using various food colorings. The base recipe is wonderfully versatile for experimenting.
Final Thoughts
Making a batch of Cinnamon Rock Candy isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth—it’s about crafting a treat that’s vibrant, joyful, and sure to delight everyone who tries it. Give it a go, and you’ll see why this homemade favorite becomes a holiday tradition and a year-round pick-me-up. Jump into your kitchen, unleash your inner candy maker, and let Cinnamon Rock Candy work its spicy magic!
Print
Cinnamon Rock Candy Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 2 pounds of candy
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegan
Description
Learn how to make delicious cinnamon rock candy at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for the holiday season, this spicy and sweet treat will be a hit with friends and family.
Ingredients
Sugar Mixture:
- 3 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups light corn syrup
- 1 cup water
Flavorings:
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon oil (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
Additional:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it with butter or nonstick spray.
- Cook Sugar Mixture: In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Attach a candy thermometer and increase the heat to medium-high. Boil the mixture without stirring until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
- Flavor the Candy: Remove from heat, immediately stir in cinnamon oil and food coloring, being cautious of strong fumes. Pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared pan, tilt to spread evenly.
- Cool and Break: Let cool completely, then break into pieces using a mallet or the back of a spoon.
- Dust and Store: Dust pieces with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon oil to taste; it’s very potent.
- Use gloves when handling candy to avoid burns.
- Candy can be made without food coloring if desired.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *