Tanghulu Recipe: A Crunchy & Sweet Candied Fruit Snack

Looking for a unique fruit snack that’s crispy, sweet, and fun to eat? This Tanghulu recipe is the perfect treat! Made with fresh fruit coated in a crunchy sugar glaze, this candied fruit snack is a delicious blend of sweet and tart flavors with a satisfying crunch.

Whether you’re craving sweet snacks recipes, refreshing summer snacks, or want to try a new healthy sweets recipe, Tanghulu is a must-try! Plus, it’s easy to make at home with just three simple ingredients.

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What Is Tanghulu?

Tanghulu (糖葫芦) is a traditional Chinese candied fruit snack made by dipping skewered fruit in hot sugar syrup, which hardens into a crunchy shell. It’s commonly made with hawthorn berries, but modern versions use strawberries, grapes, mandarin slices, and more.

Unlike soft sweet dishes recipes, Tanghulu has a satisfying, glass-like crunch when you bite into it, making it a fun and tasty snack for all ages!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Sweet: The crunchy sugar shell perfectly balances the natural tartness of the fruit.
• Simple Ingredients: Only fruit, sugar, and water—no artificial additives!
• Quick to Make: A quick recipe snack ready in under 20 minutes.
• Perfect for Summer: A refreshing summer snack with fresh fruit flavors.
• Customizable: Use different fruits like grapes, strawberries, or blueberries.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (120ml) water
• Fresh fruit of your choice (strawberries, grapes, blueberries, or mandarin slices work best!)
• Ice water (for cooling syrup)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Sesame seeds or crushed nuts (for extra crunch!)
• Lemon or honey drizzle (for added flavor!)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Small saucepan (for the sugar syrup)
• Wooden skewers or bamboo sticks (for holding fruit)
• Candy thermometer (optional but helps with accuracy)
• Parchment paper (to prevent sticking)
• Ice water bowl (for cooling syrup quickly)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

1. Wash and dry the fruit completely—any moisture will prevent the sugar from sticking.
2. If using strawberries or grapes, skewer 2-4 pieces onto each wooden stick.

Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup

1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat.
2. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let the mixture boil.
3. Use a candy thermometer to check for 300°F (150°C) (hard-crack stage).
   • No thermometer? Drop a bit of syrup into ice water—if it hardens instantly and snaps, it’s ready!

Step 3: Dip & Coat the Fruit

1. Remove the syrup from heat and quickly dip each fruit skewer, swirling to coat evenly.
2. Let excess syrup drip off, then place on parchment paper to harden.

Step 4: Cool & Serve

1. Allow the Tanghulu to harden at room temperature for 5 minutes.
2. Enjoy immediately for maximum crunch!

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Tips for the Best Tanghulu

• Dry fruit completely before dipping—water will ruin the sugar coating.
• Use medium heat to prevent the sugar from burning.
• Work quickly when dipping the fruit, as the syrup hardens fast.
• Avoid stirring too much once sugar dissolves—it can cause crystallization.
• Eat the same day for the best texture; humidity can soften the candy shell.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Sugar syrup not reaching 300°F: If it’s not hot enough, the coating won’t harden properly.
• Fruit too wet: This prevents the sugar from sticking.
• Cooking sugar too long: It can burn and turn bitter—remove from heat as soon as it reaches the right temperature.

Variations & Flavor Twists

• Spicy Tanghulu: Add a pinch of chili powder to the sugar syrup for a spicy kick.
• Chocolate Tanghulu: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate after hardening.
• Nutty Tanghulu: Sprinkle with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for extra texture.
• Citrus Tanghulu: Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice to the sugar syrup for a tangy twist.

How to Store & Make Ahead

• Best Eaten Fresh: Tanghulu is crispiest right after making it.
• Short-Term Storage: Store uncovered at room temperature for a few hours.
• Avoid Refrigeration: The sugar shell can become sticky from moisture.

Serving Suggestions

These candied fruit treats pair perfectly with:

• Iced green tea or lemonade for a refreshing balance
• A bowl of vanilla ice cream for a crunchy-sweet contrast
• Yogurt or smoothie bowls for a fun topping
• Other summer snacks like frozen grapes or fruit sorbet

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FAQs

Can I make Tanghulu without a candy thermometer?

Yes! Use the ice water test—drop a little syrup into ice water. If it hardens instantly and snaps, it’s ready.

Can I use frozen fruit?

No, frozen fruit contains too much moisture, which prevents the sugar from sticking properly.

What’s the best fruit for Tanghulu?

Strawberries, grapes, blueberries, mandarin slices, and even pineapple chunks work great.

Why is my Tanghulu sticky?

If the sugar coating is sticky instead of crunchy, it didn’t reach the hard-crack stage (300°F).

Can I make this a healthier snack?

Tanghulu is already fruit-based, but for a healthier sweets recipe, try using honey instead of sugar for a soft glaze.

Conclusion

This Tanghulu recipe is a fun and easy way to make candied fruit at home! Whether you’re looking for quick recipes snacks, unique sweet snacks recipes, or a refreshing summer snack, Tanghulu is a delicious and crispy treat that’s sure to impress.

Try this fruit snack today and enjoy a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crunchy goodness! If you loved this recipe, subscribe for more tasty recipes videos and yummy comfort food ideas.

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