Description
This homemade Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy is the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, with bold cinnamon flavor and a satisfying crunch. Made with simple ingredients and a few essential tools, this old-fashioned treat is great for holidays, gifting, or indulging in nostalgic flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp cinnamon extract
- ½ tsp red food coloring (optional)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Surface:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Lightly dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Heat the Sugar Mixture:
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat.
- Stir until sugar dissolves, then let it boil without stirring.
- Cook to Hard Crack Stage:
- Attach a candy thermometer and cook until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
- Add Flavor & Color:
- Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon extract, red food coloring, and cayenne pepper.
- Pour & Cool:
- Carefully pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Let it cool completely for about 30 minutes.
- Break & Store:
- Once hardened, break into small pieces and dust with powdered sugar.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Cinnamon oil vs. extract: If using cinnamon oil, reduce the amount to ¼ teaspoon.
- Storage Tip: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent stickiness.
- For Extra Spice: Increase the cayenne or add a dash of chili powder.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 38
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 0g
Keywords: Homemade cinnamon candy, Spicy cinnamon hard candy, Hot cinnamon candy recipe, Cinnamon-flavored hard candy, Classic red cinnamon candy