Tanghulu (Candied Fruit Skewers) | Prepped in 20 Minutes

Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese street snack featuring fresh fruit coated in a shiny, crisp sugar shell. Traditionally made with hawthorn berries, it’s now popular with strawberries, grapes, and other fruits. These delicious skewers are sweet, crunchy, and fun to make at home! 

Allergens: None (May vary based on fruit selection)

Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients (2 servings | Makes 4-6 skewers)

  • 12-18 fresh strawberries, grapes, or hawthorn berries
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup water
  • ¼ cup light corn syrup (optional, for extra shine)
  • 6 wooden skewers

Not Included in Your Delivery:

  • Ice water for cooling
  • Parchment paper for setting

Nutrition Values (per serving)

  • Energy: 220 kcal
  • Fat: 0g (Saturated: 0g)
  • Carbohydrates: 56g (Sugar: 52g)
  • Protein: 0.5g
  • Salt: 0g

Utensils

  • Medium saucepan
  • Candy thermometer (optional)
  • Wooden skewers
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Fruit & Skewers

Wash and fully dry the fruit. Thread 3-4 pieces onto each skewer and set aside.

2. Make the Sugar Syrup

In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir until dissolved.

3. Heat to Candy Stage

Let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage). If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a little syrup into ice water—it should harden instantly.

4. Coat the Fruit

Carefully dip each skewer into the hot syrup, swirling to coat evenly. Let excess syrup drip off.

5. Set the Tanghulu

Place skewers on parchment paper and let them cool for 5 minutes until the sugar shell hardens.

6. Serve & Enjoy

Once fully set, bite in and enjoy the crisp, caramelized crunch!

Chef’s Tip

For an extra glossy coating, mix ¼ teaspoon of vinegar into the sugar syrup before boiling—it helps create a clearer sugar shell.

Enjoy your Tanghulu (Candied Fruit Skewers)! 🍓🍬✨

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