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Tanghulu is a fun treat made by coating fruits in hard sugar syrup. This sweet snack is popular in China and beyond. The bright colors and shiny coats make it eye-catching. People love to eat it at festivals and fairs.

Tanghulu (Chinese Candied Fruit)

Discover the magic of Tanghulu with our delightful recipe! This classic Chinese candied fruit treat brings sweetness and joy to any occasion. Learn about its rich history, the best fruits for making Tanghulu, and creative variations to impress your friends. Making this crunchy, sugary snack at home is easier than you think! Click through to explore the full recipe and add a touch of sweetness to your celebrations!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup sugar

1/4 cup water

10-12 skewered strawberries or mandarin segments (or a mix of seasonal fruits like grapes and kiwi)

Optional: Edible glitter for decoration

Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Fruits: Rinse the fruits thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Skewer them on wooden sticks, leaving some space at the bottom for handling. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

    Make the Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and water. Stir gently until the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring until it reaches a temperature of 300°F (hard ball stage), about 10-15 minutes. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.

      Cool and Test: Once the syrup reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Test the syrup by dipping a skewer into it; it should coat the skewer and harden upon cooling.

        Coat the Fruits: Quickly and carefully dip each fruit skewer into the syrup, ensuring they are completely coated. Allow any excess syrup to drip off before placing them back on the parchment.

          Let Them Set: Allow the dipped fruits to cool and harden for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This will create a crunchy candy shell around the fruits.

            Optional Garnishes: If desired, sprinkle edible glitter or sesame seeds over the candies while the syrup is still sticky for an extra touch.

              Serve and Enjoy: Once the candies are set, serve them on a decorative platter.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 10-12 pieces

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the Tanghulu on a colorful plate or a wooden board. You can place them vertically in a cup for a fun display.