Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Recipe
Turn up the heat with this fiery and flavorful Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Recipe! These ruby-red gems are bold, spicy, and sweet with a shiny, glass-like finish that makes them irresistible. Perfect for gifting, snacking, or holiday treats, this candy brings nostalgia and a kick of cinnamon spice in every crunchy bite. With only a few simple ingredients, you can make a batch of deliciously addictive hard candy right in your own kitchen in under 35 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon oil not extract
- ½ teaspoon red food coloring
- Powdered sugar optional, for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare your surface: Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Set aside.
- Mix the base: In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir to combine.
- Boil the mixture: Place the pan over medium heat. Bring to a boil without stirring further once it starts bubbling.
- Cook to hard crack stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the pan and cook until the temperature reaches 300°F (149°C). This typically takes 25–30 minutes.
- Flavor and color: Remove the pan from heat. Quickly and carefully stir in the cinnamon oil and red food coloring. Be cautious of the strong aroma.
- Pour and cool: Immediately pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared surface. Let it spread evenly.
- Break into pieces: Once fully cooled and hardened (about 15–20 minutes), break the candy into small pieces using a knife or by hand.
- Optional finishing touch: Toss the candy pieces in powdered sugar to prevent sticking, then store them in an airtight container.