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Tanghulu Recipe

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Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese street snack made by dipping fresh fruit in hardened sugar syrup, creating a glossy, crunchy candy coating that contrasts beautifully with the juicy fruit inside.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 cups fresh fruit (traditionally hawthorn berries; also works with strawberries, grapes, or mandarin segments)
  • Skewers or bamboo sticks
  • Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the fruit thoroughly. Ensure there’s no moisture on the surface.
  2. Thread the fruit onto skewers and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium heat without stirring, swirling the pan occasionally.
  4. Cook until the syrup reaches 300°F (150°C), or the hard crack stage. This takes about 8–10 minutes.
  5. Once the syrup is ready, quickly dip each fruit skewer into the syrup to coat, letting excess drip off.
  6. Place coated skewers on a parchment-lined tray to cool and harden.
  7. Serve immediately once the coating is fully set for the best crunch.

Notes

  • Work quickly once the syrup is ready— it hardens fast.
  • Use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy.
  • Best enjoyed fresh, as the sugar coating may melt in humid conditions.

Nutrition