Name: Tanghulu Recipe: Chinese Candied Fruit
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: PT-486099H11M19S
Total time: PT-486099H11M19S
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., strawberries, grapes, mandarin oranges); Granulated sugar; Water

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tanghulu is a delightful Chinese street snack that combines the natural sweetness of fruit with a crisp, sugary glaze. Traditionally made with Chinese hawthorn berries, this treat has evolved to include a variety of fruits like strawberries, grapes, and mandarin oranges. The contrast between the juicy fruit and the crunchy candy coating makes each bite a satisfying experience. Whether you’re looking to recreate a nostalgic childhood favorite or introduce a new dessert to your repertoire, tanghulu offers a fun and visually appealing treat that’s both easy to make and enjoyable to eat.

Tanghulu Recipe: Chinese Candied Fruit

Ingredients

Fresh fruit of your choice (e.g., strawberries, grapes, mandarin oranges)
Granulated sugar
Water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Fruit: Wash and thoroughly dry your chosen fruits. Skewer them onto bamboo sticks, ensuring they are stable and easy to handle.
Make the Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
Cook the Syrup: Continue boiling the sugar mixture until it reaches the hard crack stage, which is approximately 300°F (149°C). To test, drop a small amount of syrup into cold water; it should harden instantly and snap when bent.
Coat the Fruit: Carefully dip each skewer of fruit into the hot sugar syrup, ensuring an even coating. Hold the skewer upright for a few seconds to allow excess syrup to drip off.
Cool and Harden: Place the coated fruit skewers onto a parchment-lined tray. Allow them to cool at room temperature until the sugar coating hardens completely.
Serve: Once the candy coating has set, your tanghulu is ready to be enjoyed!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 10 small skewers
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooling Time: 15–20 minutes

Variations

Fruit Combinations: Experiment with different fruits like kiwi, pineapple, or blueberries for varied flavors and colors.
Flavored Syrup: Add a few drops of vanilla or almond extract to the sugar syrup for a unique twist.
Colorful Coatings: After dipping in the sugar syrup, roll the fruit in colored sugar crystals or edible glitter for a festive appearance.

Storage/Reheating

Tanghulu is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you need to store it, place the cooled skewers in an airtight container at room temperature. Consume within 1–2 days for optimal freshness. Avoid refrigerating, as the candy coating may become sticky.

FAQs

What is tanghulu?

Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese snack consisting of fruits skewered on sticks and coated with a hardened sugar syrup, resulting in a crunchy candy shell.

Can I use any fruit for tanghulu?

While traditional tanghulu uses Chinese hawthorn berries, you can substitute with other fruits like strawberries, grapes, or mandarin oranges.

How do I know when the sugar syrup is ready?

The syrup is ready when it reaches the hard crack stage, approximately 300°F (149°C). A simple test is to drop a small amount into cold water; it should harden instantly and snap when bent.

Is tanghulu difficult to make?

Not at all! With just a few ingredients and simple steps, tanghulu is easy to prepare at home.

Can I make tanghulu without a candy thermometer?

Yes, you can perform the cold water test to determine the syrup’s readiness. Drop a small amount into cold water; if it hardens instantly and snaps when bent, it’s ready.

How do I prevent the candy coating from being sticky?

Ensure the sugar syrup reaches the hard crack stage and allow the coated fruit to cool completely before serving.

Can I use wooden skewers instead of bamboo?

Yes, wooden skewers can be used, but bamboo skewers are preferred for their sturdiness and ease of handling.

Is tanghulu suitable for children?

Yes, tanghulu is a fun and safe treat for children, but be cautious of the hard candy coating to prevent choking hazards.

Can I add toppings to my tanghulu?

Absolutely! After coating the fruit in syrup, you can roll it in crushed nuts, sprinkles, or colored sugar for added texture and visual appeal.

How long does tanghulu stay fresh?

Tanghulu is best enjoyed fresh. If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it can last for 1–2 days.

Conclusion

Tanghulu is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture that brings joy with every bite. Its simplicity and versatility make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood memories or discovering this delightful snack for the first time, tanghulu offers a delightful experience that is both fun to make and delicious to eat.