Tanghulu Recipe
Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese candied fruit snack featuring crisp, glossy sugar shells encasing fresh fruit. Juicy strawberries, grapes, or hawthorn berries are skewered, dipped in molten sugar, and quickly cooled, creating a satisfying crunch with each bite. This simple treat is both fun and visually stunning.
Equipment
- Wooden skewers
- Stainless steel pot
- Candy thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Ice water bowl
- Paper towels
- Glass bowl
Ingredients
- 3 cups granulated white sugar
- 1 lb fruit
- 1½ cups water
Instructions
- Wash the fruit by soaking it in cold water for a few minutes, then drain and pat completely dry with a paper towel or a clean kitchen towel.
- Skewer one to three pieces of fruit per stick, as too many can make dipping difficult.
- In a stainless steel pot, combine sugar and water without stirring, then cook over medium heat for 15-20 minutes until it reaches 300°F.
- Quickly dip each skewer into the hot sugar, ensuring an even coating, then immediately plunge it into ice water before placing it on a baking sheet.
- Repeat with remaining fruit and enjoy right away, as the candy shell tends to soften over time.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the sugar reaches the correct temperature; undercooking will result in a sticky coating instead of a crisp shell.
- Work quickly when dipping the skewers, as the melted sugar hardens fast once removed from heat.
- Avoid humid environments when making tanghulu, as moisture can cause the sugar coating to become sticky.