Go Back
Tanghulu is a sweet snack from China. It consists of fruits coated in hard sugar. You can find it on sticks, often sold by street vendors. This treat is popular during festivals and celebrations. People love its bright colors and crunchy texture. It brings joy to many, especially children.

Tanghulu (Chinese Candied Fruit)

Discover the delicious world of Tanghulu, the sweet Chinese candied fruit that’s both a treat and a cultural delight. In this fun guide, learn how to make Tanghulu at home using fresh fruits like strawberries and grapes, and explore exciting variations to please every palate. This festive snack brings joy to celebrations and gatherings. Ready to impress your friends with this eye-catching dessert? Click through for the full recipe and start your Tanghulu journey today!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

10 small fresh strawberries

10 small whole skewer-friendly grapes

1 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup water

1 teaspoon lemon juice

A pinch of salt

Optional: 1 tablespoon of food coloring (red or green) for vibrant effect

Instructions
 

Prepare the Fruits: Rinse the strawberries and grapes under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Make sure they are completely dry, as water can cause the sugar syrup to seize.

    Skewer the Fruits: Take a skewer and carefully stick it through the center of each strawberry and grape. Leave some space on the ends of the skewer for easy handling. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

      Make the Sugar Syrup: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. If using food coloring, add it to the mixture. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.

        Cook the Syrup: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Cook until the syrup reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).

          Dip the Fruit: Once the syrup is ready, remove it from heat immediately. Hold each skewer by the stick and dip the fruits into the hot syrup, making sure they are fully coated.

            Cool the Coated Fruit: Place the dipped fruit onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow the excess syrup to drip off and let the candies cool completely at room temperature, which will make the candy harden into a crunchy shell.

              Serve and Enjoy: Once the candies have cooled and hardened, they are ready to enjoy! You can serve them as a delightful and colorful treat at parties or as a fun dessert.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 10 skews