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You will need fresh strawberries for this treat. I recommend using ripe, juicy berries. Look for bright red strawberries with no dark spots or bruises. A pound of strawberries makes a perfect batch. Ensure you hull and wash them well before use. This helps remove any dirt or pesticides, making them safe to eat. The main sweetener in this recipe is granulated sugar. You will need one cup of sugar to create the candy coating. Combine it with half a cup of water. This mixture will turn into a syrup. Adding a little lemon juice enhances the flavor. It balances the sweetness and adds a nice zing. If you want an extra touch, try adding half a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a warm flavor. While the basic recipe is delicious, you can add some optional ingredients. Cornstarch helps create a light dusting on the strawberries. It keeps each strawberry from sticking together. This is a fun way to make them look extra special. Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract. These small changes can make your candied strawberries even more exciting. For the complete recipe and instructions, check out the Full Recipe section. To make the sugar syrup, grab a medium saucepan. Add 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice. Heat this mixture over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Then, increase the heat to bring it to a boil. Watch it closely! You want it to reach a soft ball stage, which is about 240°F or 115°C. This takes roughly 5 to 7 minutes. Once it’s ready, remove the saucepan from the heat. If you like, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Now, it's time for the fun part! Take your fresh strawberries and hold them by the stem. Quickly dip each one into the warm sugar syrup. Make sure they get fully coated. Allow any extra syrup to drip off. This step is key for that perfect candy shell. Then, place the coated strawberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you want a light, powdery finish, dust them with cornstarch before they cool. Let the candied strawberries sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This allows the syrup to harden and set. You’ll notice a shiny glaze form on them. They will look beautiful and inviting. After they cool, you can serve them right away or store them for later. Enjoy the sweet crunch and burst of flavor! For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. To get a great candy coating, you need a smooth syrup. Start with the right heat. Stir the sugar and water until the sugar dissolves. Then, bring it to a boil. Use a candy thermometer to watch for the soft ball stage at 240°F. This is key for a firm coat. Dip the strawberries quickly to avoid cooling the syrup. Let the extra syrup drip off before placing them on parchment. This helps the candy set without running. Select fresh, ripe strawberries for the best results. Look for bright red berries with no blemishes. Smaller strawberries can also work well. They can hold the coating better. Wash them gently and remove the green tops. Dry them fully before dipping. Any water will make the syrup not stick well. When serving, think about how to impress your guests. Arrange the candied strawberries on a pretty plate. You can add a touch of whipped cream or drizzle chocolate on top. For a fun twist, try sprinkling crushed nuts or coconut flakes. This adds crunch and makes the treat even more special. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above! {{image_2}} You can add fun flavors to your syrup. Try using fruit juices like orange or pineapple. These juices give a sweet and zesty twist. You can also mix in different extracts. Almond or coconut extracts can change the taste. Just remember to use small amounts. A little goes a long way. Herbs and spices can give your candied strawberries a unique touch. Mint adds a cool flavor that pairs well with the berries. Basil can also work, adding a fresh taste. If you like a warm flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon. Mix these herbs or spices into the syrup as it heats up. You can use many fruits besides strawberries. Ripe peaches, tart apples, or juicy cherries work great. The process stays the same. Just follow the steps in the Full Recipe. Each fruit brings its own flavor and texture. Experiment with your favorites to find new tastes. To store candied strawberries, keep them in a cool, dry place. Use an airtight container to protect them. A paper towel can help absorb moisture. Avoid stacking them to prevent sticking. Candied strawberries last about 3 to 5 days at room temperature. They can last longer in the fridge, up to a week. However, the coating may soften in the fridge. For the best taste, enjoy them fresh. You can freeze candied strawberries, but it can change their texture. To freeze, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last about 2 to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy, let them thaw slowly in the fridge or at room temperature. For a full recipe to make these tasty treats, check the Full Recipe section. No, I don’t recommend using frozen strawberries for candied strawberries. Frozen berries lose their texture and moisture when thawed. This makes them mushy and hard to coat. Fresh strawberries work best for a nice crunch and shape. If you can only find frozen ones, consider using them in smoothies or sauces instead. To keep your candied strawberries from getting sticky, make sure the syrup cools slightly before dipping. After coating, place them on parchment paper to set. Dusting them with cornstarch before serving can also help keep them dry. Store them in a cool place, away from moisture, to maintain that perfect crispness. Candied strawberries are great for many treats! You can use them as a topping for cakes or cupcakes. They add flair to ice cream sundaes or yogurt bowls. Try them in fruit salads for a sweet twist. You can even use them as a garnish for drinks. They make every dish look fancy and fun! For the full recipe, check out the Sweetly Glazed Candied Strawberries section. You learned how to make delicious candied strawberries. I covered ingredients, steps, and tips. Remember to choose fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Coating them just right gets you the perfect crunch. Try different syrups or even other fruits for fun twists. Store them properly to keep them fresh longer. With these ideas, impress your friends and family. Enjoy the sweet journey of candy-making!

Candied Strawberries

Satisfy your sweet cravings with our easy candied strawberries recipe! Learn how to create a delicious crunchy coating using fresh strawberries and simple ingredients like sugar and lemon juice. Explore tips, tricks, and variations to make this delightful treat your own. Perfect for snacks, desserts, or impressing guests! Click through to discover the full recipe and bring a burst of sweetness to your day!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and washed

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup water

1/4 teaspoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Cornstarch for dusting (optional)

Instructions
 

In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice over medium heat. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.

    Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Allow it to boil until it reaches a soft ball stage (approximately 240°F or 115°C on a candy thermometer). This should take about 5-7 minutes.

      Once the syrup is ready, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract if using.

        Working quickly, dip each strawberry into the sugar syrup, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow excess syrup to drip off.

          Place the coated strawberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you want a light, powdery finish, dust the strawberries with cornstarch before they cool completely.

            Let the candied strawberries sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to set before serving.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                - Presentation Tips: Arrange the candied strawberries on a decorative platter and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an added touch.