Ingredients
- Seedless Green Grapes: 2 pounds
- Assorted Jolly Rancher Hard Candies: 1 cup (approximately 40 pieces, separated by flavor)
- Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup (per coating batch)
- Water: 1/4 cup (per coating batch)
- Light Corn Syrup: 1 tablespoon (per coating batch)
- Wooden Skewers or Popsicle Sticks: 30-40 pieces
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: For drying
Instructions
- Step 1: Thoroughly wash the grapes and dry them completely using paper towels; any moisture will prevent the candy from adhering. Once dry, thread 3-4 grapes onto wooden skewers or insert individual popsicle sticks into single grapes.
- Step 2: Separate the Jolly Rancher candies by flavor/color into separate microwave-safe bowls. Crush the candies slightly using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and gently crushing them with a mallet.
- Step 3: Prepare the candy coating one batch at a time. To one bowl of crushed candy, add the specified amount of water, sugar, and light corn syrup. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring vigorously between each interval, until the candy mixture is completely smooth and liquid (this usually takes 2-3 minutes).
- Step 4: Working quickly, hold a skewered bunch of grapes and dip it into the hot candy mixture, rotating the grapes to ensure a thin, even coating. Immediately lift the grapes and continue rotating them until the excess candy drips back into the bowl.
- Step 5: Place the coated grapes immediately onto a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat. Repeat the dipping process, reheating the candy mixture in 15-second bursts as needed if it begins to thicken. Refrigerate the coated grapes for 15-30 minutes until the candy shell is completely hard and crunchy.
Notes
- Store coated grapes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; humidity is the enemy and will turn the shell sticky if left uncovered.
- These treats rely on their cold, crunchy texture, so please do not attempt to reheat them; consume straight from the refrigerator.
- For maximum visual impact, present the chilled, colorful bunches standing upright in clear vases or display them on crushed ice for a striking party centerpiece.
- The most crucial chef's tip is ensuring the grapes are absolutely bone-dry before dipping, as any trace of water will prevent the hot candy from adhering properly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American