The Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Old Fashioned Recipe is bold, spicy and full of classic charm. This candy is bright red and packed with strong cinnamon flavor.
It reminds many people of holidays and old candy jars. The recipe uses simple ingredients and careful steps. It is perfect for gifting or enjoying in small pieces.
In this guide, you will learn how to make Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Old Fashioned Recipe at home with confidence and ease.
My Experience With This Recipe
I first tried this candy during winter at a family gathering. The spicy heat surprised me in a good way. It warmed my mouth and made me smile.
Later, I asked for the recipe and tried it myself. Making hard candy felt exciting. Watching sugar turn into shiny red candy was magical.
The smell of cinnamon filled the kitchen. Now, I make this candy every year. It always brings back warm memories.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Old Fashioned
- Servings: 30 small pieces
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Course: Snacks / Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 85 kcal per piece
Equipment List
- Heavy saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Heatproof spatula
- Knife
Ingredients You Need for Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Old Fashioned
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon extract
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking later.
2. Mix Sugar and Syrup
Add sugar, corn syrup, water and salt into saucepan. Stir gently before turning on heat.
3. Heat the Mixture
Place saucepan on medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely and mixture begins boiling.
4. Cook to Hard Crack Stage
Cook without stirring until temperature reaches 300°F on candy thermometer. This step is very important.
5. Remove From Heat
Carefully remove saucepan from heat. Let bubbling slow slightly before adding flavor and color.
6. Add Cinnamon Flavor
Add cinnamon oil, cinnamon extract and red food coloring. Stir quickly and carefully to combine.
7. Pour the Candy
Pour hot candy mixture onto prepared baking sheet. Spread slightly with spatula if needed.
8. Cool and Break
Let candy cool completely. Once hardened, break into small pieces using a knife or hands.
Recipe Tips
- Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
- Do not touch hot sugar with bare hands.
- Cinnamon oil is strong. Measure carefully.
- Work quickly after adding flavor and color.
- Keep children away during cooking process.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Piece |
|---|---|
| Calories | 85 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Sugar | 21 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sodium | 15 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve this candy in small bowls or jars. It is great after meals or with coffee. Wrap pieces in cellophane for gifts. The bright red color looks beautiful during holidays. Enjoy one piece at a time because the flavor is strong and spicy.
Best Sides To Serve With
- Hot coffee or espresso
- Herbal or black tea
- Holiday cookies
- Mixed nuts
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store candy in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep away from heat and moisture. Do not refrigerate.
Candy stays fresh for up to three weeks. Dust lightly with powdered sugar if pieces stick together.
Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Old Fashioned Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon extract
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Prepare the Pan
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking later.
Mix Sugar and Syrup
- Add sugar, corn syrup, water and salt into saucepan. Stir gently before turning on heat.
Heat the Mixture
- Place saucepan on medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely and mixture begins boiling.
Cook to Hard Crack Stage
- Cook without stirring until temperature reaches 300°F on candy thermometer. This step is very important.
Remove From Heat
- Carefully remove saucepan from heat. Let bubbling slow slightly before adding flavor and color.
Add Cinnamon Flavor
- Add cinnamon oil, cinnamon extract and red food coloring. Stir quickly and carefully to combine.
Pour the Candy
- Pour hot candy mixture onto prepared baking sheet. Spread slightly with spatula if needed.
Cool and Break
- Let candy cool completely. Once hardened, break into small pieces using a knife or hands.
Notes
- Use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
- Do not touch hot sugar with bare hands.
- Cinnamon oil is strong. Measure carefully.
- Work quickly after adding flavor and color.
- Keep children away during cooking process.
FAQs about Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Old Fashioned
1. Is cinnamon oil safe to use in candy?
Yes, food-grade cinnamon oil is safe. Always use small amounts because it is very strong.
2. Can I make this candy less spicy?
Yes, reduce cinnamon oil slightly. Keep flavor balanced so candy stays enjoyable.
3. Why did my candy turn cloudy?
Cloudy candy happens from stirring too much or moisture. Avoid stirring after boiling starts.
4. Can I use natural food coloring instead?
Yes, but color may look lighter. Red gel coloring gives the brightest traditional look.
5. Is this recipe good for beginners?
Yes, but work carefully. Follow steps closely and watch temperature for best results.
Conclusion
The Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Old Fashioned Recipe is a bold classic treat. It is spicy, shiny and full of tradition.
Making it at home feels fun and rewarding. With simple tools and patience, anyone can succeed.
Now you know how to make Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Old Fashioned Recipe and understand the ingredients for Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Old Fashioned Recipe. Try it and enjoy a fiery candy from the past.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
