Cinnamon Hard Candy
This easy 6-ingredient Cinnamon Hard Candy is packed with spicy-sweet cinnamon flavor and a fun candy recipe to make at home anytime, for any festive occasion.
Prep Time15 minutes mins
Cook Time30 minutes mins
4 hours hrs
Total Time4 hours hrs 45 minutes mins
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: candy, christmas, holiday, holidays
Servings: 40 servings
Calories: 102kcal
- 3 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups light corn syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring optional
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon oil or 2 teaspoons for extra spicy
- powdered sugar for coating
Line a 15x10x1-inch baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Lightly grease with butter or nonstick spray.
In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and food coloring. Cook over medium heat, stirring just until the sugar dissolves. This will take approximately 3-4 minutes.
Stop stirring and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Continue cooking until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer. This will take approximately 20-25 minutes.
Remove from heat immediately. Carefully stir in cinnamon oil. Steam will rise and the aroma can be strong, so stand back!
Pour the hot candy onto the prepared surface. Let it cool completely, about 4 hours.
Break into pieces with a mallet. Toss in powdered sugar until lightly coated. Shake off excess and let sit for 10–15 minutes so the coating sets.
Storage
- Store leftover candy in an airtight container at room temperature in a dry area, away from humidity. It will last several weeks to a few months if sealed well.
Tips
- Use a reliable candy thermometer. This is worth it and will ensure you reach the hard-crack stage that's essential for the hard, firm texture.
- Add cinnamon oil off the heat and stand back. Turn heat off and add the oil slowly and carefully. The fumes are strong!
- Work quickly once candy is poured. It sets fast, so once it's poured onto the pan, ensure it's distributed evenly quickly.
- Store with a light dusting of powdered sugar. This helps to ensure the pieces don't stick together.
Calories: 102kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 7mg | Potassium: 0.5mg | Sugar: 27g | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 0.01mg