Growing up, I can still vividly remember the day my grandma taught me how to make candied strawberries. I was just a little girl, mesmerized by the way the ruby-red berries transformed into shimmering, sugar-coated gems. The aroma of the simmering sugar syrup, the satisfying crunch as I bit into each one – it’s a sensory experience I’ll never forget. And to this day, whenever I make a batch of candied strawberries, that cherished memory comes rushing back. It’s a simple pleasure that never fails to delight.
Why This Candied Strawberries Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Candied Strawberries
What makes this candied strawberries recipe so special is the perfect balance of sweet and tart. The key is in the ratio of sugar to fruit – just enough to create a delectable candy coating without overpowering the natural flavor of the strawberries. And the secret technique? Simmering the berries in a sugar syrup until they’re softened and infused with that irresistible sweetness. It’s a process that takes time and patience, but the results are worth it.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these candied strawberries, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved – The star of the show! Look for juicy, ripe strawberries that will soak up the sugar syrup beautifully.
- 1 cup white granulated sugar – This is what creates the candy-like coating. The sugar caramelizes around the berries, transforming them into a sweet, crunchy treat.
- 2 tablespoons water – A small amount of water helps the sugar dissolve and form the perfect syrup.
That’s it! With these three ingredients, you can whip up a batch of candied strawberries that will have your friends and family begging for more.
Step-by-Step Candied Strawberries Instructions
Preparing Your Candied Strawberries
Prep time for this recipe is just 10 minutes, and the cooking time is another 10 minutes, for a total of 20 minutes from start to finish. All you’ll need is a medium-sized saucepan and a spatula or spoon for stirring.
1- Start by rinsing the strawberries and gently patting them dry with a paper towel. Hull the berries, then slice them in half lengthwise.
2- In the saucepan, combine the 1 cup of white granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of water. Place the pan over medium heat and stir the mixture constantly until the sugar has dissolved completely, creating a smooth, clear syrup.
3- Carefully add the halved strawberries to the simmering sugar syrup. Let the mixture cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries have softened and the syrup has thickened slightly.
4- Keep a close eye on the pan, as the syrup can quickly start to caramelize. You’ll know the candied strawberries are ready when the berries are coated in a glistening, candy-like glaze and the syrup has a rich, amber hue.
5- Remove the pan from the heat and use a slotted spoon to transfer the candied strawberries to a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer.
6- Allow the candied strawberries to cool completely, about 5 minutes, before serving. The final result should be sweet, sticky, and utterly irresistible!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use the freshest, ripest strawberries you can find for the best flavor. Avoid berries that are overly soft or damaged.
- Be patient and let the sugar syrup come to a gentle simmer – rushing the process can cause the sugar to burn.
- Keep a close eye on the berries as they cook, stirring frequently to ensure even coating and prevent sticking.
- For the perfect texture, don’t overcook the strawberries. You want them to be softened but still hold their shape.
Serving and Storing Your Candied Strawberries
Perfect Pairings for Candied Strawberries
These candied strawberries make a wonderful treat all on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert, or enjoy them with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. They’re also a lovely addition to a cheese board or as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or yogurt parfaits. This recipe yields 6 servings, so it’s the perfect amount to share with family and friends.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Candied strawberries are best enjoyed fresh, but you can easily store them for later. Once the berries have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze the candied strawberries for up to 3 months. Simply spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen candied strawberries, you can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes. They can also be reheated gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Candied Strawberries
Creative Candied Strawberries Variations
While the classic version is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on candied strawberries. Try dipping the coated berries in melted dark or white chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence. You can also mix in a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of ground black pepper to balance the sweetness. For a festive touch, sprinkle the candied strawberries with a dusting of powdered sugar or crushed toasted almonds.
Making Candied Strawberries Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking for a healthier take on this treat, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs. For a low-carb version, substitute the white sugar with a granulated sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. To make it vegan, simply use a plant-based milk or water in place of the traditional sugar syrup. And for a gluten-free option, be sure to use certified gluten-free ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
A: While fresh strawberries are ideal, you can use frozen berries in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the sugar syrup.
Q: How long do the candied strawberries take to make?
A: This recipe has a total time of 20 minutes – 10 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking.
Q: Can I store the candied strawberries for later?
A: Yes, you can store the candied strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: How much does this recipe make?
A: This candied strawberries recipe yields 6 servings.
Q: What if my strawberries start to stick or the syrup burns?
A: To prevent sticking, be sure to stir the berries frequently as they cook. If the syrup starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat and add a splash of water to stop the caramelization.
Candied Strawberries
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the sweet and irresistible flavor of homemade candied strawberries. These caramelized strawberries are the perfect quick and easy treat, perfect for topping cakes, ice cream, yogurt, and more.
Ingredients
– 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
1. In a large skillet, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium, stirring frequently, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
2. Add the halved strawberries and toss to coat evenly in the sugar mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries are softened and the sugar has caramelized.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and let the candied strawberries cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature, as a topping or snack.
Notes
For a thicker, more syrupy glaze, let the strawberries cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Store any leftover candied strawberries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Candied strawberries are a truly special treat that hold a special place in my heart. The combination of juicy, ripe strawberries and a crisp, sugar coating is simply unbeatable. I hope this recipe inspires you to recreate the magic of this nostalgic dessert in your own kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, I guarantee these candied strawberries will become a new family favorite. So go ahead, give them a try, and let me know how they turn out!
