There’s something magical about making candy from scratch. It reminds me of the first time I tried to create a treat that could bring joy to my friends and family, especially those who were on a health journey. As I poured the shimmering mixture onto the countertop, the vibrant colors reminded me of sunsets, and the scent of fresh citrus filled the air. I knew right then that I wanted to create a hard candy that not only tasted good but also packed a nutritional punch. This Superfood Citrus Hard Candy does just that, featuring zesty flavors and added health benefits from superfoods like turmeric and spirulina.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup organic cane sugar
– 1/3 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon orange zest
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon spirulina powder
– 1/2 teaspoon natural flavoring (like vanilla or almond)
– A pinch of sea salt
– Optional: Edible glitter for garnish
**Instructions:**
Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and lightly greasing it with coconut oil. This will prevent the candy from sticking.
In a medium saucepan, combine the organic cane sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer and monitor the temperature until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). This could take about 10-15 minutes, so keep an eye on it!
Once the temperature is reached, remove the saucepan from heat. Quickly add the lemon zest, orange zest, turmeric powder, spirulina powder, natural flavoring, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir vigorously to combine all the ingredients. The mixture will bubble up, so be careful!
Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly. If you like, sprinkle edible glitter on top for a magical touch.
Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature, which may take about 30-45 minutes. Once hardened, use a sharp knife or a hammer to break it into pieces.
Store your Superfood Citrus Hard Candy in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy the bright flavors and the health benefits that come with every bite!
This hard candy not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also serves as a conversation starter about how desserts can be both delightful and nourishing. Each piece is a little reminder of the joy of creating something beautiful and healthful, one candy at a time.