Rock candy is a classic treat that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. Making your own rock candy at home is easy and fun, and it’s a great activity to do with kids. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy the sweet satisfaction of your own homemade rock candy in no time.
Materials You Will Need
- Sugar
- Water
- Food coloring (optional)
- Flavor extract (optional)
- Wooden skewer or lollipop stick
- String
- Saucepan
- Glass jar or vase
Step 1: Preparing the Solution In a saucepan, mix 2 cups of sugar with 1 cup of water. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring or flavor extract at this stage.
Step 2: Boiling the Solution Bring the sugar solution to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 3 minutes. Do not stir the solution during this time.
Step 3: Cooling the Solution Remove the saucepan from heat and let the solution cool to room temperature, which should take about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Preparing the String While the solution is cooling, tie a string to a wooden skewer or lollipop stick. The string should be long enough to reach the bottom of the jar or vase and extend up above the rim.
Step 5: Soaking the String Once the solution has cooled, dip the string into the solution so that it is completely covered. Then, remove the string from the solution and let any excess drip off.
Step 6: Placing the String in the Jar Carefully place the skewer with the string into the jar or vase so that the string hangs down the center of the jar. Make sure the string does not touch the sides or bottom of the jar.
Step 7: Waiting for Crystals to Form Place the jar in a cool, dry place and let it sit undisturbed for 2-3 days. As the water in the solution evaporates, sugar crystals will begin to form on the string.
Step 8: Enjoying Your Rock Candy Once the sugar crystals have reached your desired size, gently remove the skewer from the jar and let the rock candy air dry for a few hours. Then, break the rock candy into pieces and enjoy!
Making rock candy is a simple and fun activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can create your own delicious treats at home. So, grab some friends and start making your own rock candy today!