Print

Perfect Candied Strawberries: Easy Homemade Recipe

candied strawberries - featured image
Print Recipe

Learn how to make perfect candied strawberries with a glossy, crackly sugar shell. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and no candy thermometer, delivering professional results every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) fresh strawberries
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) water
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash strawberries gently under cold water and pat completely dry with paper towels. Let them sit on a paper towel-lined plate for 10 minutes to air-dry fully. Insert a toothpick or skewer into the stem end of each strawberry, about halfway in. Set aside.
  2. Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set near the stove.
  3. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently with a wooden spoon until sugar is mostly dissolved.
  4. Place saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil without stirring. If using a candy thermometer, insert it now. Let boil undisturbed until it reaches 300°F (150°C) — the hard crack stage — about 8-10 minutes.
  5. If not using a thermometer, look for the sugar to turn a very pale golden color with smaller, more uniform bubbles. Test by dropping a small amount into ice water; if it forms hard, brittle threads that snap cleanly, it’s ready.
  6. Remove from heat and let sit for 30 seconds. If using flavor extract, stir it in gently (it will bubble up).
  7. Working quickly, hold a strawberry by the toothpick and dip into the hot sugar mixture, tilting the pan to create a deeper pool. Rotate to coat about three-quarters of the berry. Let excess drip off for 5-7 seconds.
  8. Place dipped strawberry onto prepared parchment. Gently twist the toothpick to release it. Repeat with remaining strawberries.
  9. Let strawberries cool undisturbed at room temperature for at least 30 minutes until the shell hardens and becomes glossy.
  10. Serve within 2-3 hours for best texture.

Notes

Humidity is the enemy; make on a dry day if possible. Don’t stir the sugar once it starts boiling. Work quickly but don’t rush; you have about 5-7 minutes of workable time. Don’t dip strawberries too deep — leave the top and leaves exposed. Let excess drip off properly for a thin, elegant shell. If sugar hardens in the pan, gently reheat over low heat.

Nutrition

Keywords: candied strawberries, glossy sugar shell, easy candy recipe, homemade candy, strawberry dessert, gluten-free dessert, vegan dessert

Find it online: https://chloeplate.com/perfect-candied-strawberries-easy-homemade-recipe/