Description
Dandelion Candy is a delicate, floral-infused hard candy made from fresh dandelion petals simmered to create a unique and natural sweet treat. This vegan and homemade candy offers a soothing, herbal twist perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh dandelion petals (yellow parts only)
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1–2 drops natural yellow food coloring
Instructions
- Prepare the petals: Gently rinse the dandelion petals and carefully remove any green parts or stems to ensure only the vibrant yellow parts are used.
- Make floral infusion: In a small saucepan, bring the water to a simmer and add the cleaned petals. Let them simmer gently for 10 minutes to infuse the water with the dandelion flavor.
- Strain the petals: Remove the saucepan from heat and strain out the dandelion petals, reserving the infused liquid in the pan.
- Add sugar and lemon juice: Return the flower-infused liquid to the stovetop and add the granulated sugar along with lemon juice. Stir over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves.
- Boil to hard crack stage: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue boiling without stirring until the candy thermometer reads 300°F (150°C), the hard crack stage necessary for hard candy.
- Add coloring and mold: Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the optional yellow food coloring. Immediately spoon or pour the hot syrup into silicone candy molds or onto a parchment-lined tray in small round shapes.
- Cool and set: Let the candy cool completely at room temperature until hardened. Once set, carefully remove the candies from molds or break apart if set on a tray.
- Store properly: Store the finished dandelion candies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crisp.
Notes
- Only use dandelions harvested from chemical-free lawns or wild areas to avoid harmful contaminants.
- Working quickly after boiling is critical as the syrup hardens very fast once removed from heat.
- These candies are traditionally used to soothe sore throats or as a unique homemade gift option.
