Imagine creating your very own gourmet candy right in your kitchen, bursting with vibrant flavors and a texture so perfectly chewy that it rivals store-bought treats! This homemade Starburst-style candy recipe is not just a culinary adventure, but a delicious way to impress your friends and family with your confectionery skills. Whether you're a baking enthusiast or a curious food lover, these homemade candies will transport you to a world of sweet, tangy delights that you can customize with your favorite fruit flavors.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 20 pieces
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup gelatin powder
- 1/4 cup fruit juice (flavor of choice)
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by lining an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage and light greasing with cooking spray.
- In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently to ensure sugar is fully dissolved before heating.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor temperature, aiming to reach 250°F (hard-ball stage).
- While syrup is heating, bloom the gelatin powder in the fruit juice in a separate bowl, allowing it to sit for 5 minutes until it becomes spongy and fully absorbed.
- Once syrup reaches 250°F, remove from heat and quickly whisk in the bloomed gelatin mixture until completely incorporated and smooth.
- If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to achieve your preferred candy color and mix thoroughly.
- Immediately pour the hot mixture into the prepared parchment-lined pan, using a spatula to spread evenly and prevent air bubbles.
- Allow the candy to cool and set at room temperature for approximately 2-3 hours, or until firm and no longer sticky to the touch.
- Once set, lift the candy out using parchment paper and place on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut into small rectangular pieces.
- Optional: Dust cut pieces with a light coating of powdered sugar to prevent sticking and enhance texture.
- Store candies in an airtight container at room temperature, separated by parchment paper layers to prevent sticking.
Tips
- Temperature is crucial: Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure you hit exactly 250°F for the perfect candy consistency.
- Flavor experimentation: Try different fruit juices like strawberry, orange, or mixed berry to create unique candy variations.
- Prevent sticking: Always use parchment paper and a light coating of cooking spray to make removal and cutting easier.
- Color carefully: Add food coloring drop by drop to achieve your desired vibrant hue without overwhelming the flavor.
- Patience is key: Allow the candy to set completely at room temperature for the best chewy texture.
- Storage matters: Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers to maintain freshness and prevent candies from sticking together.
- Safety first: Be extremely careful when handling hot sugar syrup, as it can cause severe burns.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 45kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
