Cinnamon Rock Candy

Cinnamon Rock Candy is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. This homemade candy is not only perfect for gifting but also adds a festive touch to any occasion. With its vibrant color and spicy sweetness, Cinnamon Rock Candy stands out as a unique confection that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps and simple ingredients, you can create your own delicious candy at home.
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the amount of cinnamon oil to customize the spice level to your liking.
• Festive Presentation: The bright red color makes it an eye-catching addition to holiday treats or gift baskets.
• Perfect for Gifting: Packaged nicely, this candy makes a thoughtful and delicious gift for family and friends during the holidays.
• Long Shelf Life: Properly stored, Cinnamon Rock Candy can last for weeks, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth candy-making experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Candy thermometer
• Large deep saucepan
• 15 inch x 10 inch x 1 inch rimmed metal sheet pan
• Parchment paper
• Butter knife or sharp knife
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Candy thermometer: Ensures accurate temperature readings, crucial for achieving the hard crack stage needed for rock candy.
• Large deep saucepan: Provides enough space for boiling the sugar mixture without overflow.
• Rimmed metal sheet pan: Helps contain the poured candy while it cools, preventing spills and messes.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the finished candy from the pan.

Ingredients

For the Candy Mixture

• 1 cup Water
• 3 3/4 cup Sugar
• 1 1/4 cup Light Corn Syrup
• 1 teaspoon Red Food Coloring (Optional)
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Candy Oil (2 teaspoons for spicy)

For Dusting

• 1 1/2 cups Powdered Sugar

How to Make Cinnamon Rock Candy

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Butter a 15-inch x 10-inch x 1-inch rimmed metal sheet pan. Line it with parchment paper and butter the parchment paper as well. Ensure that the edges are well buttered to prevent the candy from seeping underneath. Avoid using wax paper as it won’t withstand high temperatures.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large deep saucepan, combine water, sugar, corn syrup, and optional food coloring. Mix over medium-high heat until the sugar starts to dissolve. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan without letting it touch the bottom for an accurate reading.

Step 3: Boil Mixture

Continue boiling until the sugar mixture reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit (hard crack stage), which should take about 20 minutes. Watch closely; if it begins to boil too close to the edge, remove from heat and stir until bubbles subside before returning to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Add Cinnamon Oil

Once your mixture reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit, remove it from heat. Quickly stir in cinnamon oil while keeping your face away from the hot mixture due to its strong aroma. Ensure your area is well-ventilated.

Step 5: Pour and Cool

Immediately pour the hot candy mixture into your prepared pan. Allow it to cool for about four hours.

Step 6: Cut and Store

After cooling, dust the top of your candy with powdered sugar. Flip it onto a large cutting board or cookie sheet and carefully remove parchment paper. Return the candy to the pan and use a sharp knife to break it into bite-sized pieces. Dust with more powdered sugar before storing in an airtight container.

How to Serve Cinnamon Rock Candy

Cinnamon Rock Candy is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re gifting it or indulging yourself, the presentation can enhance the experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your candy stand out.

Gift Packaging

• Use decorative boxes: Place pieces of Cinnamon Rock Candy in small, colorful boxes for a charming gift.
• Tie with a ribbon: Add a festive touch by tying each box with a ribbon or twine for an elegant finish.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange on a platter: Create a beautiful dessert display by arranging the candy on a large platter, mixing it with other sweets.
• Pair with fruits: Serve alongside fresh apples or pears to balance the sweetness.

Party Favors

• Individual bags: Fill small cellophane bags with candy and seal them with stickers for party favors.
• Label each bag: Personalize labels with names or messages for guests to take home.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Rock Candy

Creating perfect Cinnamon Rock Candy requires precision and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve candy-making success.

• Temperature Control: Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches exactly 300°F for proper hardening.
• Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area when adding cinnamon oil, as its strong aroma can be overwhelming.
• Butter Edges: Generously butter the edges of the parchment paper to prevent sticking during cooling.
• Timing Matters: Pour the mixture into the pan immediately after reaching temperature; delays can affect texture.
• Cool Completely: Allow the candy to cool for at least four hours before cutting to achieve the right consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Rock Candy

While Cinnamon Rock Candy is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options.

1. Spiced Apple Slices: Serve warm apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon for a flavorful contrast.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with crunchy rock candy bits.
3. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the cinnamon flavors beautifully.
4. Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate adds an interesting texture and flavor contrast.
5. Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts can provide a satisfying crunch alongside sweet candies.
6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over fruit or ice cream for extra sweetness that meshes well with cinnamon notes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cinnamon Rock Candy can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold preparation: Skipping the buttering process on the parchment paper can lead to sticking. Always ensure both the pan and parchment are well-buttered.
• Bold temperature checks: Using a candy thermometer incorrectly can ruin your candy. Ensure it doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan for an accurate reading.
• Bold stirring too soon: Stirring the candy mixture while it’s boiling can cause crystallization. Wait until it reaches the hard crack stage before stirring.
• Bold ventilation: Ignoring proper ventilation when adding cinnamon oil can be hazardous. Always keep your face away from the mixture and ensure your cooking area is well-ventilated.
• Bold cooling time: Not allowing enough cooling time can affect the texture of your candy. Be patient and let it cool completely for at least 4 hours.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store Cinnamon Rock Candy in an airtight container.
• item It will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cinnamon Rock Candy

• item You can freeze Cinnamon Rock Candy, but it’s best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container.
• item It will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Cinnamon Rock Candy

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 200°F) and place the candy on a baking sheet for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.
• Bold Microwave: Heat small pieces of candy in short intervals (5-10 seconds) on medium power until just warm; avoid overheating.
• Bold Stovetop: Place candy pieces in a non-stick skillet over low heat, stirring gently until they soften; use caution not to burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cinnamon Rock Candy?

Cinnamon Rock Candy is a sweet, hard candy infused with spicy cinnamon flavor. It’s perfect for gifting during the holidays or enjoying as a treat.

How do I make Cinnamon Rock Candy less spicy?

To reduce the spiciness, use only 1 teaspoon of cinnamon candy oil instead of 2 teaspoons. This will give you a milder flavor.

Can I customize my Cinnamon Rock Candy?

Yes! You can add different flavors like vanilla or peppermint, or even adjust the color by using different food coloring options.

How should I store leftover Cinnamon Rock Candy?

Store any leftover candy in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for longer shelf life.

Is there a substitute for corn syrup in this recipe?

Yes, you may use honey or agave syrup as an alternative to light corn syrup, although this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Rock Candy is not only delicious but also versatile. Its sweet and spicy flavor makes it perfect for holiday gifts or as a personal treat. Feel free to experiment with different colors and flavors to create your unique version!