Description
Capture the enchanting hues of the northern lights in a mesmerizing, sweet treat. This colorful candy, layered with neon shades and a touch of shimmer, is perfect for holidays, parties, or as magical gifts.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- Candy Base:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp clear vanilla extract (or almond extract for variation)
- Colors and Decorations:
- Food coloring: neon green, blue, purple
- Edible glitter or shimmer dust (optional)
- Tools:
- Candy thermometer
- Lollipop molds or parchment paper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Candy Mixture
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the pan, ensuring the tip doesn’t touch the bottom.
- Increase heat to medium-high and let the mixture boil without stirring.
Step 2: Reach the Hard-Crack Stage
- Allow the mixture to heat to 300°F (hard-crack stage). Remove the pan from the heat immediately.
- Stir in clear vanilla extract.
Step 3: Divide and Color
- Divide the hot candy mixture into three heat-safe bowls.
- Add a few drops of neon green, blue, and purple food coloring to each bowl and stir until colors are vibrant and evenly distributed.
Step 4: Create the Northern Lights Effect
- Working quickly, pour small dollops of each color into lollipop molds or onto parchment paper, layering and swirling the colors to mimic the glow of the northern lights.
- Sprinkle with edible glitter or shimmer dust for an extra magical effect.
Step 5: Cool and Finish
- Let the candies cool completely before removing from molds or peeling from parchment paper.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh and shiny.
Notes
- Work quickly when handling the candy to prevent hardening before shaping.
- Neon and pastel colors mimic the aurora borealis effect best.
- For added flavor, use different extracts in each color batch (e.g., mint, lemon, or raspberry).
