Colorful holiday assortment of rock candies, chocolates, and sparkling sugar confections for festive gatherings.
# What You'll Need:
→ Rock Candy
01 - 2 cups granulated sugar
02 - 3/4 cup water
03 - 1/2 cup light corn syrup
04 - 1/2 teaspoon flavored extract (peppermint, cherry, or lemon)
05 - Food coloring (red, green, or as desired)
06 - Powdered sugar (for dusting)
→ Holiday Chocolates
07 - 7 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
08 - 3.5 ounces white chocolate, chopped
09 - Holiday sprinkles or edible glitter
→ Sugar Confections
10 - 1 cup assorted gumdrops
11 - 1/2 cup candied fruit (cherries, orange peel, etc.)
12 - 1/2 cup sparkling sugar or edible glitter
# Method Steps:
01 - Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly dust with powdered sugar.
02 - Combine granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stir constantly over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
03 - Increase heat and bring mixture to a boil without stirring. Continue cooking until temperature reaches 300°F (150°C) using a candy thermometer.
04 - Remove from heat immediately. Stir in flavored extract and a few drops of chosen food coloring, swirling gently to combine.
05 - Carefully pour hot syrup onto prepared baking sheets. Let cool for 5 to 10 minutes, then score with a buttered knife or break into shards once fully set (approximately 1 hour). Dust with additional powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
06 - Melt dark and white chocolates separately using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts.
07 - Pour melted chocolates into festive silicone molds or spread onto parchment paper, swirling white into dark chocolate for a marbled effect. Sprinkle with holiday sprinkles or edible glitter. Allow to set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm, then unmold or break into pieces.
08 - Arrange rock candy, chocolates, gumdrops, candied fruit, and sparkling sugar on a large platter in a decorative holiday pattern. Serve immediately or store candies in airtight containers.
