Cinnamon Rock Candy

Cinnamon Rock Candy is a festive treat that’s perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying with family and friends. This old-fashioned recipe combines sweet and spicy flavors with a beautiful crystalline appearance that looks like magic. Whether you’re crafting candy for Christmas or simply want to try your hand at making homemade sweets, this recipe is fun, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to follow.

Growing up, making rock candy was a family tradition. The smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen always signaled the start of the holiday season. Now, it’s a recipe I love sharing with my kids and grandkids—it’s simple enough for little helpers and rewarding for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and Fun: Bright red, spicy candy that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
• Customizable: Adjust the cinnamon intensity or swap for other flavors like peppermint or orange oil.
• Great for Gifting: Wrap in cellophane bags or jars for thoughtful, homemade gifts.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need pantry staples and a few specialty items.

Recipe: Cinnamon Rock Candy

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup water
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon oil
• ½ teaspoon red food coloring (optional)
• Powdered sugar for coating

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools

1. Grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. Have a candy thermometer, a heat-resistant spatula, and a wooden spoon ready.
3. Sprinkle a light layer of powdered sugar over the baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. In a medium-sized heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water.
2. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Boil the Syrup

1. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom.
2. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
3. Cook until the syrup reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), which takes about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Flavor and Color

1. Once the syrup reaches 300°F, remove it from the heat.
2. Quickly stir in the cinnamon oil and red food coloring, being careful of the steam (it’s very hot and can cause irritation).

Step 5: Pour and Cool

1. Pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Tilt the pan gently to spread the candy evenly.
2. Allow the candy to cool completely, which usually takes 30-60 minutes.

Step 6: Break into Pieces

1. Once the candy is fully set, use a hammer, mallet, or the handle of a knife to break it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Toss the pieces in powdered sugar to prevent them from sticking together.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rock Candy

1. Be Careful with the Cinnamon Oil: It’s highly concentrated and can irritate your skin or eyes. Measure it carefully and stir it in quickly.
2. Use a Candy Thermometer: Accurate temperature is crucial for achieving the right texture.
3. Work Quickly: Once the candy reaches the correct temperature, move fast to pour it before it hardens.
4. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cinnamon oil to suit your taste. Start with ½ teaspoon if you prefer a milder flavor.
5. Store Properly: Keep the candy in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing moisture.

Why This Recipe is a Holiday Favorite

Cinnamon Rock Candy is not only delicious but also nostalgic. Its spicy sweetness and vibrant red color evoke the warmth and joy of the holidays. Plus, the process of making it feels like a festive event, especially when the whole family gets involved.

The bold cinnamon flavor sets this candy apart from store-bought versions, and its homemade charm makes it a thoughtful gift. Whether you pack it in pretty jars or serve it in a candy dish, it’s sure to delight everyone who tastes it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use cinnamon extract instead of cinnamon oil?
A1: No, cinnamon extract won’t provide the same intensity of flavor. Cinnamon oil is much more concentrated and designed for candy making.

Q2: Can I use other flavors?
A2: Yes! Peppermint, orange, or anise oil are great alternatives. Adjust the amount based on the strength of the oil.

Q3: How long does this candy last?
A3: If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the candy can last for up to 2 weeks.

Q4: Can I double the recipe?
A4: Yes, but use a larger saucepan and work quickly, as the candy sets fast.

Q5: What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
A5: You can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water—it should form hard, brittle threads when it’s ready.

Final Thoughts

Making Cinnamon Rock Candy is a rewarding and festive experience that brings the warmth of the holidays into your home. Its spicy-sweet flavor and beautiful appearance make it a standout treat, whether you’re gifting it to loved ones or sharing it at a holiday party.

This recipe is straightforward enough for beginners yet yields professional-looking results. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why it’s a timeless classic. Enjoy the sweet crunch and happy candy-making!

---