Description
In the world of culinary delights, innovation and tradition often blend to create something truly magical. The Pink Cotton Candied Grapes recipe is a perfect example of this fusion, offering a modern twist on the classic tanghulu. This recipe transforms the humble green grape into a dazzling, crunchy treat that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate. Coated in a hard candy shell flavored with cotton candy and colored in vibrant pink, these grapes are then rolled in crushed Jolly Ranchers for an added burst of flavor and texture. Ideal for parties, special occasions, or simply as a fun kitchen experiment, these candied grapes promise a sweet and satisfying ASMR crunch with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups white granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- Crushed hard candies (preferably Jolly Ranchers)
- Green grapes
- Pink food gels
- Cotton candy dram oil (for flavoring)
Instructions
- Preparation: Begin by thoroughly drying the green grapes. Then, carefully puncture each grape with a bamboo skewer. This step is crucial for ensuring the grapes are ready to be coated.
- Creating the Candy Coating: In a large saucepan, combine the white granulated sugar, water, and light corn syrup. Add a few drops of pink food gels and a bit of cotton candy flavoring to the mix. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cooking the Candy Coating: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir the mixture constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. This process requires patience and attention to prevent the sugar from burning.
- Reaching the Perfect Temperature: Once the sugar has dissolved, insert a candy thermometer into the saucepan. Increase the heat to medium-high and allow the mixture to boil. The goal is to cook the mixture until it reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes. This temperature is crucial for achieving the hard candy shell.
- Coating the Grapes: As soon as the sugar coating reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Quickly dredge each skewered grape in the hot sugar coating, ensuring a uniform layer. Then, immediately roll the coated grapes in the crushed Jolly Ranchers.
- Setting the Candied Grapes: Place the coated grapes on a silicone baking mat to cool and harden. The silicone mat is essential to prevent the grapes from sticking and allows for easy removal once they’re set.
- Enjoying Your Creation: Allow the candied grapes to harden completely before enjoying. These treats are best enjoyed fresh, offering a delightful crunch and a burst of sweet, tangy flavors.