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A pile of glossy red cinnamon rock candy pieces dusted generously with powdered sugar, with a crisp, glass-like texture and a sweet, spicy cinnamon flavor

Homemade Cinnamon Hard Candy

Old-fashioned cinnamon hard candy with intense spicy-sweet flavor and beautiful glassy red shards. Perfect for gifting or filling the candy jar.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup water
  • 3¾ cups granulated sugar
  • 1¼ cups light corn syrup
  • 1 –2 teaspoons cinnamon oil
  • Red food coloring gel preferred
  • Powdered sugar for dusting optional

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan, candy thermometer, rimmed baking sheet, silicone mat or greased surface

Method
 

  1. Grease a large rimmed baking sheet or line with a silicone mat.
  2. Combine water, sugar, and corn syrup in a heavy saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
  3. Stop stirring. Cook undisturbed with a candy thermometer until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-crack stage).
  4. Remove from heat and let sit 1 minute. Carefully stir in cinnamon oil and red food coloring.
  5. Pour onto the prepared sheet and allow to spread. Cool completely until hard (45–60 minutes).
  6. Break into shards. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
  7. Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers.

Notes

Use cinnamon oil, not extract. A candy thermometer is essential. Molten sugar is extremely hot — handle with care. Store airtight to protect from humidity. Keeps for weeks when properly stored.