How to Make Homemade Lollipops from Scratch: A Beginner's Guide
Candy making is an art form that can transform simple ingredients into sweet treats loved by kids and adults alike. One classic treat that can be easily made at home is the lollipop. Whether you prefer a traditional sugar-based lollipop, a honey-infused one, or a fun twist with Jolly Ranchers, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Method 1: Making Basic Lollipops
Ingredients: 2 cups 250 grams powdered sugar or corn syrup Water Corn syrup (light) Candy thermometer (optional) Flavoring oil and gel food coloring (optional) Lollipop sticks Lollipop molds (or a baking sheet) Cooking spray (optional) Flowers (optional)
Steps:
Lightly grease your lollipop mold or a baking sheet with cooking spray.
Mix sugar, corn syrup, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Use light corn syrup for a clear, colorful result.
Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan, ensuring it does not touch the bottom.
Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until it reaches the hard-crack stage (300-310°F or 149-155°C).
Stir in flavoring oil and gel food coloring if desired, then wait for the mixture to stop bubbling.
Pour the mixture into molds, using a metal spoon and leaving space for the flowers if desired.
Insert lollipop sticks and twist halfway. Wash molds with warm water if you used powdered sugar.
Method 2: Making Honey Lollipops
Ingredients: Sugar Water or infused water Honey Candy thermometer (optional) Lollipop sticks Parchment paper Paper drops or small cups Flavoring (lemon juice, lemon zest, orange zest, ground cinnamon, or ginger)
Steps:
Combine sugar, water (or infused), and honey in a saucepan over medium heat.
Wait for the sugar to dissolve, then clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until it reaches the hard-crack stage (300-310°F or 149-155°C).
Stir in flavorful ingredients if desired. You can use infused water to enhance the flavor.
Pour small drops of honey onto a sheet of parchment paper, leaving space for lollipop sticks.
Insert lollipop sticks and twist halfway. Allow the lollipops to harden for 25-30 minutes.
Wrap in cellophane or wax paper for storage.
Method 3: Making Jolly Rancher Lollipops
Ingredients: Unwrapped Jolly Ranchers Parchment paper Caramel hard candies (optional) Lollipop sticks
Steps:
Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Arrange Jolly Ranchers on parchment paper in small groups.
Bake for 5-7 minutes or until the candy melts, but not completely. Press green sour apple Jolly Ranchers as needed for specific flavors.
Insert lollipop sticks and twist halfway. Allow the lollipops to cool for 25-30 minutes.
Wrap in cellophane or wax paper.
These homemade lollipops not only make a delightful treat but also provide an opportunity to experiment with flavors and designs. Whether you're looking for a traditional sugar-based lollipop, a honey-infused variety, or a fun twist with Jolly Ranchers, this guide will help you create delicious lollipops at home with simple ingredients and a few basic tools.