Edible sugar glass, a mesmerizing confectionary creation, transforms simple sugar into a brittle, translucent sheet that adds a touch of elegance and whimsy to desserts. This delicate treat, often mistaken for real glass, is surprisingly easy to make and can be customized with various colors and flavors. In this guide, we’ll delve into the art of crafting edible sugar glass, exploring its history, techniques, and creative applications.
EQUIPMENT
- Bowl
- Pot or deep skillet
- Wooden or silicone spoon
- Sheet pan
- Kitchen spray or silicone mat
- Candy thermometer
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups white granulated sugar (450g)
- 1 cup corn syrup (Karo syrup, 300g)
- 1/2 to 1 cup water (125 to 250ml)
- Pinch of cream of tartar (optional)
- 1–2 tbsp food coloring (adjust for desired color)
- 1–2 tsp flavored extracts
INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare Your Pan: Line a sheet pan with a silicone mat or lightly coat it with cooking spray.
- Combine Ingredients: In a pot or deep skillet, mix together the water, sugar, corn syrup, and cream of tartar (if using).
- Heat the Mixture: Place the pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil. Once boiling, stop stirring.
- Reach the Hard Crack Stage: Heat the syrup until it reaches 290–300°F (145–150°C), known as the hard crack stage. Use a candy thermometer to check, or look for the syrup to start turning a light yellow. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into a bowl of ice-cold water—if it hardens and breaks easily, it’s ready.
- Pour and Shape: Carefully pour the hot syrup onto your prepared pan or spoon it into silicone molds. Work quickly, as the syrup will thicken and harden fast.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the candy cool completely for 1–2 hours. Once hardened, you can break it into pieces and enjoy.
NOTES
- Safety First: The sugar syrup gets extremely hot and can cause severe burns. Young cooks should always work with adult supervision.
- Have Fun! Breaking the candy can be just as enjoyable as eating it. 😊
