Stained Glass Candy
Description
These vibrant Stained Glass Candies are a classic confectionery treat, perfect for holidays or festive gatherings. Made from a simple mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and water, they are boiled to the hard-crack stage before being flavored with oil-based extracts and dyed in bright, jewel-toned hues. The result is a candy that is visually stunning, with a crisp texture that shatters satisfyingly before melting into a sweet, intense burst of flavor. Unlike chewy caramels or fudge, these require no chewing&# 226;ÂÂjust a momentary crunch that dissolves quickly. They are incredibly versatile; you can mix and match flavors like peppermint, orange, or lemon. Because they are coated in powdered sugar to prevent sticking, they keep well in airtight containers, making them an excellent homemade gift for friends, teachers, and neighbors.Ingredients
Directions
-
Prepare a work surface by lining a large baking sheet or table with aluminum foil, creating raised edges to contain the sugar.
-
Generously coat the foil with powdered sugar, banking it up slightly on the sides.
-
In a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan, combine the white sugar, corn syrup, and water.
-
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
-
Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pot and boil the mixture without stirring until it reaches 300ðF (149ðC) (hard-crack stage).
-
Once the mixture reaches 300ðF (149ðC), remove the pot from the heat immediately.
-
Let the mixture sit for about 10 seconds to cool slightly, then carefully stir in your chosen food coloring.
-
Add 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of oil-based flavoring extract and stir quickly to combine, avoiding standing directly over the pot to inhale strong fumes.
-
Pour the hot candy mixture onto the powdered sugar-lined foil.
-
Use a rubber spatula to scrape the pot clean and spread the candy into a thin layer.
-
Immediately place the pot, spatula, and thermometer into hot soapy water to prevent hardening.
-
As the candy begins to set but is still pliable, quickly cut it into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife or scissors.
-
Work fast as the edges will cool and harden first; if it becomes too hard, it will shatter rather than cut.
-
Once cut, transfer the candy pieces to a strainer set over a bowl and shake gently to remove excess powdered sugar.
-
Allow the candies to cool completely before storing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1123.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 8.6mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 290.7g97%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 253.8g
- Protein 0.0g0%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Safety Warning: The candy mixture reaches extremely high temperatures (300ðF). Be careful not to touch the liquid or steam. When adding flavorings, volatile oils may release strong fumes; step back slightly to avoid inhaling concentrated vapors.
Cleaning Tip: Clean your equipment immediately after pouring the candy. If the sugar hardens in the pot, it is nearly impossible to remove. Soaking in hot soapy water helps dissolve the residue.
Storage: Store finished candies in airtight containers or Ziploc bags. The powdered sugar coating helps prevent sticking. They keep well at room temperature for several weeks.
Variations: You can make multiple batches with different colors and flavors (e.g., red for peppermint, orange for citrus) to create a colorful mix.
Cutting Tip: If the candy hardens too quickly to cut, you can let it sit for a minute to cool completely, then break it by hand, though cutting while pliable yields cleaner shapes.
