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Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy

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This Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy is a bold and spicy homemade treat with a fiery cinnamon kick. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make crystal-clear, deep red candy that’s perfect for the holidays, gifting, or snacking any time of year!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1 tsp cinnamon oil (or more for extra heat)
  • 1/2 tsp red food coloring (gel or liquid)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
  2. Have a candy thermometer ready.

Step 2: Cook the Candy

  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat.
  2. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let it boil.
  3. Heat to 300°F (149°C) (hard crack stage). This will take about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Add Flavor & Color

  1. Remove from heat and carefully stir in cinnamon oil and red food coloring. (Be careful—cinnamon oil is strong and may cause eye irritation!)
  2. Immediately pour the hot candy onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Cool & Break the Candy

  1. Let cool for 30 minutes until fully hardened.
  2. Use a mallet or knife to break into small pieces.
  3. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Notes

  • For Extra Heat: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for a fiery cinnamon bite.
  • Alternative Shapes: Pour into silicone molds for fun candy shapes.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months.