Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy is a delightful treat that brings the sweetness of fresh fruit together with the crunchy texture of candy. This simple recipe allows you to indulge in the natural flavors of strawberries and pineapple, making a perfect snack or dessert. Enjoy these colorful candy-coated fruits at your next gathering, or surprise your family with a homemade sweet treat.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy is not only easy, but it also allows you to create a fun and delicious treat that everyone will love. By using fresh fruit, you can enjoy the natural sweetness without any artificial flavors. This recipe is also a fantastic way to introduce children to cooking and candy-making. Plus, the vibrant colors of strawberries and pineapple make this candy visually appealing, adding a festive touch to any occasion.

How to Make Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

Ingredients:

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup fresh pineapple, sliced into thin rounds or wedges

Directions:

First, wash and pat dry the strawberries and pineapple slices. Ensure they are completely dry to avoid the candy mixture from seizing.
In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of light corn syrup, and 1/2 cup of water. Stir gently to combine.
Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Stop stirring as the mixture heats to prevent crystallization.
Allow the mixture to reach 300°F (hard-crack stage) on a candy thermometer. This will take about 10-15 minutes. Remove it from heat and stir in the vanilla extract if you choose to use it.
Using a fork or skewer, quickly dip each fruit slice into the candy mixture, ensuring an even coat. Work swiftly, as the candy mixture hardens quickly.
Place the coated fruits on a parchment-lined surface to cool and harden.
Once set, arrange the candy-coated strawberries and pineapple slices in a serving container. Enjoy immediately for the best crunch, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.

How to Serve Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

Serve your Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy as a fun snack at parties or as a sweet treat after dinner. They are best enjoyed fresh, so consider serving them immediately after making them. You can also create a colorful fruit platter using these candies mixed with other fresh fruits for a beautiful display.

How to Store Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

If you have leftovers, store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature. However, it’s best to enjoy them the same day as they tend to lose their crunch after 1 day. Keep them away from humidity, which can make the candy sticky.

Tips to Make Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy

Make sure the fruit slices are thoroughly dried before dipping to ensure the candy adheres well.
Use a candy thermometer to check the temperature accurately.
Work quickly when dipping the fruit, as the candy mixture can harden fast.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as apples, peaches, or even bananas. Just remember to slice them thinly to create an even coating of candy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen fruit?
It’s best to use fresh fruit for this recipe. Frozen fruit contains more moisture, which can prevent the candy from setting properly.

2. What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the candy mixture by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a hard ball, it’s ready.

3. Can I add food coloring to the candy mixture?
Yes, you can add a few drops of food coloring to create a fun and colorful treat. Just make sure to stir it in well before dipping the fruit slices.

Enjoy making and sharing your Homemade Strawberries and Pineapple Candy!