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Colorful homemade rock candy sticks with sparkling sugar crystal texture.

Rock Candy Recipe

This homemade rock candy recipe is a fun and easy way to grow beautiful edible sugar crystals using simple ingredients. Perfect for parties, gifts, science experiments, and colorful sweet treats, this classic crystal candy recipe is loved by both kids and adults.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
5 Days Additional Time 5 days
Total Time 5 days 35 minutes
Servings: 6 sticks
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tsp flavor extract (optional)
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Extra sugar for coating sticks

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Glass jars or mason jars
  • Wooden skewers or cotton strings
  • Clothespins
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Candy Sticks

    Lightly wet the wooden skewers or strings and roll them in granulated sugar. Let them dry completely for about 15 minutes. This sugar coating helps crystals begin forming more easily.
  2. Heat the Water

    Pour 2 cups of water into a medium saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Dissolve the Sugar

    Slowly add the sugar one cup at a time while stirring continuously. Make sure each cup dissolves fully before adding the next. The syrup should become thick and clear.
    2 cups water/4 cups sugar​=2:1
  4. Add Color and Flavor

    Remove the syrup from the heat. Add food coloring and flavor extract if desired. Stir gently to combine.
    Popular flavor ideas include:
    CherryLemonPeppermintBlue raspberryCotton candy
  5. Fill the Jars

    Carefully pour the hot sugar solution into clean glass jars. Leave some space at the top to avoid overflow.
  6. Insert the Sticks

    Place the prepared skewers into the jars without touching the sides or bottom. Use clothespins to keep them centered.
  7. Let Crystals Grow

    Place the jars in a cool, undisturbed location. Tiny crystals will begin forming within 24 hours, while larger crystals usually take 5–7 days.
    Supersaturated Sugar Solution→Crystal Formationtext{Supersaturated Sugar Solution} rightarrow text{Crystal Formation}Supersaturated Sugar Solution→Crystal Formation
  8. Remove and Dry

    Once the crystals reach your desired size, remove the sticks and place them on parchment paper to dry for 1–2 hours before serving.

Notes

Rock Candy Recipe

  • Do not move the jars during crystal growth.
  • Humidity can make rock candy sticky.
  • Larger crystals require more growing time.
  • Glass jars work best for monitoring crystal formation.

Tips for Best Results

  • Use filtered water for clearer crystals.
  • Make sure all sugar fully dissolves.
  • Keep jars away from vibrations or movement.
  • Allow slow crystal growth for larger candy formations.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Sugar: 31g
  • Fat: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
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