Make sweet, crunchy candied grapes using just two main ingredients. This simple, no-bake recipe creates a shiny, crisp coating perfect for a refreshing snack or party treat.
Author:ellievance
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Stovetop Candy Making
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups seedless grapes (red or green), washed and completely dried
1 cup granulated white sugar
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for slight tang)
Instructions
Wash the grapes thoroughly. Place them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and allow them to air dry completely. Moisture prevents the candy coating from sticking.
In a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice (if using).
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. Stop stirring once it begins to boil.
Allow the syrup to boil undisturbed until it reaches the hard crack stage, about 300 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. This usually takes 8 to 12 minutes after boiling starts. If you do not have a thermometer, the syrup will be clear and very thick.
Remove the syrup from the heat immediately. Let it cool for 2 to 3 minutes until the bubbling subsides slightly. This prevents the coating from being too thin.
Working quickly, spear a grape with a toothpick or dip it using tongs. Dip the grape into the syrup, rotating it to coat evenly.
Immediately place the coated grape back onto a clean parchment or silicone-lined baking sheet.
Allow the grapes to cool completely at room temperature for about 20 minutes until the candy shell hardens and becomes crisp.
Repeat with the remaining grapes. Store finished candy grapes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or chill them for a firmer texture.
Notes
For a ‘Galaxy Grapes’ look, you can lightly dust the cooling grapes with edible luster dust or a tiny amount of food coloring mixed with cornstarch before the shell fully sets.
If you prefer a sour coating, you can skip the syrup and instead toss the dried grapes in a mixture of powdered sugar and Kool-Aid mix or citric acid powder.
This recipe is a great alternative to complex dessert ideas often associated with meal planning services.