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Homemade Pop Rocks

A fun, crackling DIY candy recipe that mimics classic Pop Rocks using an acid-base reaction to create an explosive, sweet, and tangy treat.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Candy, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Candy Base
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup light corn syrup
  • 0.33 cup water
Popping Mix & Flavoring
  • 2 tsp citric acid
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 0.5 tsp flavoring extract e.g., strawberry, blue raspberry
  • 1 dash food coloring liquid or gel
  • 1 spray non-stick cooking spray or oil for greasing

Equipment

  • Medium heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Candy Thermometer
  • Baking tray
  • Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
  • Food processor (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prepare your surface by lining a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat and greasing it lightly with oil or non-stick spray.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, then insert a candy thermometer.
  3. Without stirring, cook until the mixture reaches 300°F (149°C) (hard crack stage). Immediately remove from heat.
  4. Quickly stir in citric acid, baking soda, flavoring, and food coloring. The mixture will foam up.
  5. Pour the mixture onto your prepared tray and spread thin with a heatproof spatula.
  6. Let it cool and harden completely at room temperature (about 30-45 minutes).
  7. Once cooled, break the candy into small shards or pulse in a food processor for tiny crystals.
  8. Store immediately in an airtight container with a packet of silica gel or dry rice to keep dry.

Notes

Humidity is the enemy of this candy. Do not make on rainy days, and strictly store with a desiccant.