Homemade Cinnamon Rock Candy

 

Homemade Cinnamon Rock Candy – A Festive, Spicy Treat

There’s nothing quite like homemade cinnamon rock candy to bring warmth and nostalgia to your holiday season. This old-fashioned candy has a bold cinnamon kick, a beautiful deep red hue, and a satisfying crunch that makes it a holiday favorite. Whether you’re making it for festive gatherings, gifting it in decorative tins, or simply indulging in a nostalgic treat, this easy rock candy recipe is sure to impress.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can recreate classic cinnamon candy at home—no need for store-bought versions filled with artificial flavors. The key to this irresistible homemade candy lies in achieving the perfect hard-crack stage for that signature crunch and using pure cinnamon oil for an intense, warming spice.

Let's dive into how to make this perfect holiday confection from scratch!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Cinnamon Flavor – Uses pure cinnamon oil for a strong, spicy kick.

Perfect for Gifting – Package it in decorative tins or bags for a thoughtful homemade present.

Easy to Make – No special equipment is needed beyond a candy thermometer.

Fun & Festive – The bright red color adds holiday cheer to any dessert spread.

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Ingredients & Their Role in the Recipe

Main Ingredients

1 cup water – Helps dissolve the sugar and create the base for the candy.

3 3/4 cups granulated sugar – The core ingredient that caramelizes and hardens into rock candy.

1 1/4 cups light corn syrup – Prevents crystallization, ensuring a smooth, glossy texture.

1 tsp red food coloring – Gives the candy its signature fiery red hue (optional but recommended).

1-2 tsp cinnamon oil – The key ingredient that provides the bold, spicy flavor. (Use 2 tsp for extra heat!)

For Finishing

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar – Coats the candy pieces to prevent them from sticking together.

Butter (for greasing) – Keeps the candy from sticking to the pan during the setting process.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cinnamon Rock Candy

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

1. Grease a 15x10x1-inch sheet pan with butter.

2. Line it with parchment paper, then butter the parchment to ensure easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Candy Base

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine water, sugar, corn syrup, and red food coloring.

2. Place the pan over medium-high heat and stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves.

Step 3: Heat to Hard-Crack Stage (300°F)

1. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan.

2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, avoiding stirring.

3. Continue heating until the thermometer reads 300°F (hard-crack stage)—this takes about 20 minutes.

4. If the mixture starts to rise too close to the pan’s edge, briefly remove it from the heat to prevent overflow.

Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Oil (Use Caution!)

1. Once the mixture reaches 300°F, immediately remove it from heat.

2. Carefully add the cinnamon oil—be aware that the strong fumes may cause temporary irritation, so work in a well-ventilated area.

3. Stir quickly to evenly distribute the cinnamon flavor.

Step 5: Pour & Cool

1. Immediately pour the hot candy mixture into the prepared pan.

2. Allow it to cool undisturbed for at least 4 hours until fully hardened.

Step 6: Break & Dust

1. Once set, dust the top with powdered sugar.

2. Flip the candy onto a cutting board, peel off the parchment, and break it into bite-sized shards using the tip of a knife.

3. Dust with additional powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Store Properly

Keep the cinnamon rock candy in an airtight container at room temperature.

It will stay fresh for up to 2 months, making it perfect for holiday gifts!

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Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rock Candy

✅ Use a Candy Thermometer – Precision is key! Hard-crack stage (300°F) ensures a proper snap.

✅ Ventilate Your Kitchen – Cinnamon oil is potent—avoid inhaling the fumes directly.

✅ Butter the Pan Well – This prevents the candy from sticking and ensures easy removal.

✅ Break It Carefully – Use a knife tip or small hammer to create even pieces without shattering.

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Serving & Gifting Ideas

Holiday Treats – Serve alongside cookies, hot chocolate, or festive desserts.

Edible Gifts – Package in decorative jars or holiday tins for a homemade Christmas gift.

Cocktail Garnish – Add a candy shard to hot toddies or mulled cider for a spicy twist.

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Final Thoughts: Why This Cinnamon Rock Candy is a Must-Try

Making homemade cinnamon rock candy is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that brings warmth, nostalgia, and a fiery burst of flavor to the holiday season. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a beautiful

, glossy, and perfectly spiced candy that’s far superior to store-bought versions.

Give it a try, and share the holiday cheer with family and friends!