This Tanghulu recipe is a fun and easy way to make a classic Chinese candied fruit treat! It’s perfect for a festive snack or dessert.
Author:Evelyn
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb strawberries, grapes, or other fruit of choice (~30 pieces)
2 cups white sugar
1 cup water
Instructions
Prepare the Fruit: Wash and thoroughly dry the fruit. Remove any leaves, stems, or inedible parts. Skewer the fruit, placing 3 pieces or less per skewer for easier handling.
Make the Sugar Syrup: In a small saucepan over low to medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Do not stir. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer until it thickens into a syrup and turns amber in color, about 10-20 minutes. This should reach around 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
Test the Syrup: To test if the syrup is ready, drizzle a spoonful into an ice water bath. If it hardens within seconds and cracks when bent, it’s ready.
Candy the Fruit: Quickly dip each fruit skewer into the syrup, swirling to coat evenly with a thin layer. Immediately dip the coated skewer into the ice water bath to cool and harden the sugar coating.
Cool and Serve: Place the finished skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking. Repeat with the remaining skewers, working quickly so the sugar doesn’t burn. Enjoy your Tanghulu immediately!