Description

Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese street snack made by coating fruit in a crisp, glossy sugar shell. Originally made with hawthorn berries, this treat now features a variety of fruits like strawberries, grapes, and oranges. The satisfying crunch and sweet-tart balance make it an irresistible dessert. Follow this easy recipe to make authentic Tanghulu at home!

Ingredients

Scale

18 fresh hawthorn berries, strawberries, grapes, or other firm fruit
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup water
¼ teaspoon lemon juice (optional, helps prevent crystallization)
6 wooden skewers
Parchment paper (for cooling)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Wash the fruit thoroughly and pat completely dry with a paper towel. (Any moisture will prevent the sugar from sticking.)
Thread 3 pieces of fruit onto each skewer, leaving some space between them.

Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, water, and lemon juice over medium heat.
Do not stir—let the sugar dissolve naturally.
Allow the mixture to reach 300°F (150°C) (hard crack stage) on a candy thermometer. The syrup should be clear and slightly golden.

Step 3: Coat the Skewers

Carefully dip each skewer into the hot syrup, twirling to coat the fruit evenly.
Let excess syrup drip off, then place the skewer onto parchment paper to cool.
Repeat for all skewers, working quickly before the syrup hardens.

Step 4: Let It Set

Allow the Tanghulu to cool at room temperature for 5–10 minutes until the candy shell hardens completely.
Serve immediately for the perfect crunch!

Notes

Prevent Sugar Crystallization: Adding a little lemon juice or a tablespoon of corn syrup helps keep the sugar syrup smooth.
Work Fast: The syrup cools quickly, so dip the skewers immediately once it reaches the right temperature.
Best Fruits for Tanghulu: Besides hawthorn, try strawberries, grapes, kiwis, blueberries, or even pineapple chunks.
Storage: Tanghulu is best eaten fresh. If needed, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 hours.

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 10 min

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 skewer
Calories: 140 kcal
Sugar: 32 g
Sodium: 0
Fat: 0
Saturated Fat: 0
Unsaturated Fat: 0
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 1 g
Cholesterol: 0