How to make tanghulu without a thermometer?

No thermometer? No problem! Use the water test. Drop some hot syrup into ice water. If it turns into a hard, glassy thread, it's ready! If it’s soft or bendy, cook it longer. Watching the bubbles also helps. Small, tight bubbles mean the sugar is close to perfect. Microwave tanghulu simplifies the process, but this trick works for stovetop versions too!

How long does tanghulu take to harden?

Tanghulu hardens fast! Once coated, the sugar shell sets in about five minutes. The process happens quickly, especially in cooler temperatures. If the coating stays sticky, it may need more time or wasn't cooked long enough. To speed things up, place them in the fridge. Microwave tanghulu firms up quickly, making it a great last-minute treat idea!

Can you use brown sugar for tanghulu?

Yes, but it changes the texture. Brown sugar has molasses, which makes the coating softer and chewier. Traditional tanghulu uses white sugar for a crisp, glass-like shell. If you try brown sugar, expect a deeper caramel taste. Also, cook it carefully. Brown sugar burns faster than white sugar. For microwave tanghulu, white sugar gives the best crunch.

Microwave Tanghulu: Easy & Fun To Make In Minutes!

Description

A delightful twist on the traditional Chinese candy, featuring a crisp chocolate coating around juicy strawberries. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a fun topping for desserts.

Ingredients

Scale

20 strawberries (about 1 pound), washed, dried, and stems removed
3 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups water
1 tablespoon cocoa powder

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries: Wash and dry the strawberries completely. Any moisture will prevent the candy coating from sticking.
Make the Syrup: In a microwave-safe bowl, mix sugar, water, and cocoa powder. Stir until well combined.
Heat the Mixture: Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the sugar dissolves completely.
Coat the Strawberries: Carefully dip each strawberry into the hot syrup, ensuring an even coating.
Let It Set: Place the coated strawberries on parchment paper and let them cool until the candy shell hardens.

Notes

Use skewers for easier handling.
Test the syrup by dropping a little in cold water—if it hardens immediately, it’s ready.
Switch up the fruit by using grapes or orange slices for variety.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Chinese-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 150
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 39g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g