How to Make Rock Candy on a Stick (6 Steps)

Whether it's for a science project or just for fun, making rock candy on a stick is a project that provides not only a lesson on how crystals grow, but also the pleasure of a great treat for kids. Creating rock candy on a stick is not a quick project, because it takes a week or more for the sugar crystals to grow; so plan to set aside a few minutes each day to view the process and discuss what is happening. At the end of the project, spend some time examining the crystals and then enjoy your sugary treat.

Things You'll Need

4 cups sugar 1 cup corn syrup 1 cup water Candy thermometer Wooden spoon Quart glass jar Small piece of ¼-inch Styrofoam to cover jar 4 8 inch or longer bamboo skewers

How to Make Rock Candy on a Stick

Place the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a pot and mix with a wooden spoon. A heavy-duty aluminum pot works best, because it will conduct the heat evenly.
Cook the mixture until the temperature reaches 300 degrees; use a candy thermometer to determine the exact temperature. Stir the mixture constantly with a wooden spoon to avoid burning.
Pour the sugar solution into the glass jar and cover with the Styrofoam.
Push the skewers through the Styrofoam until they are about ¼ inch from the bottom of the jar. Leave at least 1½ inches between skewers to allow for the sugar crystals to grow.
Set the jar aside where it will remain untouched but can be viewed. After about a week, you should have your rock candy on a stick ready to remove.
Rinse each piece under cold water and set it on a piece of wax paper to dry.

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