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a person is holding some fruit on a stick with gummy bears and strawberries

Tanghulu Recipe – Crunchy, Sweet & Irresistible!


  • Author: Elisa
  • Total Time: 20
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Learn how to make Tanghulu, a crispy sugar-coated fruit snack! This easy recipe gives you the perfect crunchy candy shell every time.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Tanghulu:

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (120ml) water
  • ¼ cup (60ml) light corn syrup (optional, for extra shine)
  • Fresh fruit of choice (strawberries, grapes, mandarins, cherries, etc.)
  • Wooden skewers

Optional Toppings:

 

  • Sesame seeds
  • Crushed nuts
  • Edible glitter for a fun twist

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruit & Skewers

  1. Wash and dry fruit completely – Any moisture can prevent the sugar from sticking.
  2. Thread 2-3 pieces of fruit onto each wooden skewer.
  3. Set aside on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

2. Make the Sugar Syrup

  1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup (if using) over medium heat.
  2. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring.
  3. Let the mixture boil until it reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer (hard-crack stage).
  4. To test, drop a small amount into ice water – if it hardens immediately and snaps, it’s ready.

3. Coat the Fruit

  1. Tilt the pan slightly and dip each skewer into the hot syrup, rotating to coat evenly.
  2. Let excess syrup drip off, then place on parchment paper to set.
  3. Work quickly, as the syrup hardens fast!

4. Cool & Serve

 

  1. Let Tanghulu harden for 5-10 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Enjoy immediately for the best crunch!

Notes

Use dry fruit – Water and sugar don’t mix!
Don’t stir the sugar syrup – It can cause crystallization.
Work fast – The syrup hardens quickly, so dip and coat efficiently.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 10
  • Category: DESSERT
  • Cuisine: AMERICAN

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 120