How do you make crushed rock candy?

Ingredients Needed:

- Sugar (1 cup)

- Water (1/2 cup)

- Flavouring (optional - like lemon extract or vanilla extract)

- Food colouring (optional - for adding colour to the candy)

- Heavy saucepan

- Wood spatula

- Ovenproof dish

- Parchment paper

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Syrup:

- In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar and water.

- Over medium heat, stir constantly until the sugar dissolves.

- Once dissolved, bring the mixture to a boil, still stirring.

2. Adding Flavour and Colour (optional):

- If desired, stir in a few drops of your chosen flavouring at this stage.

- If using food colouring, add it now and mix well to achieve your desired colour.

3. Making the Rock Candy:

- Transfer the hot syrup to an ovenproof dish.

- Place the dish in a warm location to let the syrup cool slowly and undisturbed.

- The syrup will naturally crystallize and form rock candy over a few days to a week.

4. Crushing the Candy:

- Once the rock candy has formed, it's time to crush it.

- To do this, use a rolling pin or meat mallet.

- Place a piece of parchment paper on a counter or sturdy surface, then place the rock candy on it.

- Carefully break up the candy into smaller pieces using the rolling pin or meat mallet.

- Continue until the candy is crushed to your desired consistency.

5. Storing and Enjoying:

- Store your crushed rock candy in an airtight container at room temperature.

- Enjoy the crushed candy as a snack, add it to trail mixes or dessert toppings, or use it in other recipes as needed.

Remember, the key to making successful rock candy is to let it cool slowly and undisturbed, without mixing or moving the dish during the crystallization process. Patience is required, but the results are worth it!