Easy Ginger Candy Recipe + VIDEO

User Reviews

5

14 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    20 mins

  • Cook Time

    50 mins

  • Drying Time

    2 hrs

  • Total Time

    3 hrs 10 mins

  • Servings

    24 servings

  • Calories

    84 kcal

  • Course

    Dessert

  • Cuisine

    Japanese, American

Easy Ginger Candy Recipe + VIDEO

This ginger candy recipe uses thinly sliced fresh ginger simmered until tender, then cooked in a sugar syrup until crystallized and dried to create chewy, sweet-spicy pieces. The candy balances the sharp heat of ginger with sweetness, enhanced optionally by vanilla or orange extract. The coating of crystallized sugar gives the candies a delicate crunch while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.

Description

The preparation starts by peeling and thinly slicing fresh ginger root, which is simmered in water for 30 minutes to soften its fibrous texture. After reducing the liquid to just a small amount, sugar and salt are added and simmered until the syrup changes from clear to a pale cream or golden hue, indicating crystallization. Vanilla extract is stirred in optionally to add a warm aromatic note, and the ginger slices are then drained, spread on a tray, and left to dry for several hours.

When dry, the ginger pieces can be stored in an airtight container and will keep for at least a month, offering a spicy-sweet treat that can be eaten on its own or added to desserts and teas. The candy's chewiness makes it distinctly different from crystallized ginger which is typically firmer and drier.

Using quality fresh ginger and monitoring the syrup's color are key to achieving the right texture and flavor balance. Extract flavors like vanilla or orange can be varied to suit preference, adding subtle complexity to the candy.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 1 ¼ pound ginger root fresh
  • 6 cups water
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

Instructions

  1. Peel the ginger root and slice into 1/8 inch rounds.
  2. Place the ginger slices in a large 6 quart sauce pot. Add the water. Bring to a simmer. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes to soften the ginger.
  3. Remove the lid and check the liquid levels. There should be approximately 1/4 - 1/3 cup of water in the bottom of the pot. If needed, scoop out some water with a ladle, or add water, to make sure you have about ¼ cup in the pot.
  4. Stir in the sugar and salt. Bring the sugar syrup to a simmer. Simmer, stirring regularly, for 15-20 minutes, until the syrup starts to crystalize. The color will range from pale cream to golden. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Set out a baking rack. Spray with nonstick cooking spray. Use tongs to move the ginger pieces to the rack, spreading out in a single layer.
  6. Allow the ginger to rest for 2-4 hours, until all the pieces are dry.
  7. Place in an airtight container. The ginger candy will last for at least 1 month if kept in a cool dry place.

Notes

  • Adding vanilla or orange extract provides a complementary aroma that balances the spiciness of ginger.
  • Ensure the syrup reaches the correct crystallization stage by observing the color change from clear to light golden.
  • Dry the ginger slices thoroughly on a nonstick surface for 2-4 hours before storing to prevent stickiness.
  • Store the finished ginger candy in an airtight container in a cool place; it will keep for at least one month.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Serving 1oz Calories 84kcal (4%) Carbohydrates 21g (7%) Protein 1g (2%) Fat 1g (2%) Saturated Fat 1g (5%) Sodium 55mg (2%) Potassium 98mg (2%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 17g (34%) Vitamin C 1mg (1%) Calcium 6mg (1%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 24servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 84 kcal

% Daily Value*

Serving 1oz
Calories 84kcal 4%
Carbohydrates 21g 7%
Protein 1g 2%
Fat 1g 2%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Sodium 55mg 2%
Potassium 98mg 2%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 17g 34%
Vitamin C 1mg 1%
Calcium 6mg 1%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

5

14 reviews
Excellent

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