Tanghulu, often mistaken as “tongue hulu”, is a traditional Chinese candied fruit snack that originated during the Song Dynasty. This crispy, glossy treat is made by skewering fresh fruit and coating it with a thin layer of hardened sugar syrup, creating a sweet, crunchy shell around the juicy fruit inside.
Tanghulu is commonly sold as a street snack in China, especially during festivals and celebrations. While traditionally made with hawthorn berries, modern variations include strawberries, grapes, oranges, and kiwis. In this detailed step-by-step guide, we will show you how to make tanghulu at home easily, with perfect results every time.
What Is Tanghulu?
Tanghulu (糖葫芦) is a classic Chinese snack featuring skewered fruit coated in a hardened sugar shell. Unlike caramel apples or chocolate-covered fruit, tanghulu has a crisp texture that shatters when bitten. The combination of sweet and tart flavors makes it a favorite among both children and adults.
Why Is Tanghulu So Popular?
✔ Crunchy sugar coating – A crisp texture that adds a satisfying crunch.
✔ Sweet and tangy balance – The fruit’s natural tartness contrasts with the sugar shell.
✔ Visually stunning – The glossy, crystal-like coating enhances the fruit’s colors.
✔ Simple ingredients – Requires only sugar, water, and fruit.
✔ Perfect for celebrations – A festive treat often enjoyed during Chinese New Year and other holidays.
Best Fruits for Making Tanghulu
Tanghulu works best with firm, low-moisture fruits that hold their shape when skewered and coated with syrup.
Best Fruits for Tanghulu
✔ Hawthorn Berries – The traditional choice, offering a slightly tart and crunchy bite.
✔ Strawberries – Juicy, sweet, and visually appealing.
✔ Grapes (Red or Green) – Naturally firm and perfect for bite-sized tanghulu.
✔ Mandarin Orange Segments – A citrusy twist with a slightly tangy taste.
✔ Blueberries – A great choice for mini tanghulu skewers.
✔ Kiwi Slices – Vibrant green color and a unique tangy flavor.
Fruits to Avoid
✘ Bananas & Mangoes – Too soft and prone to breaking.
✘ Watermelon & Melon – High water content prevents sugar adhesion.
How to Make Tanghulu: Step-by-Step Recipe
This easy tanghulu recipe ensures crispy, glossy, and delicious results every time. Follow these steps for the perfect homemade tanghulu.
Ingredients
✔ 2 cups fresh fruit of choice (strawberries, grapes, hawthorn berries, etc.)
✔ 2 cups granulated sugar
✔ 1 cup water
✔ ½ teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice (to prevent sugar crystallization)
✔ Bamboo skewers
Equipment Needed
✔ Heavy-bottomed saucepan
✔ Candy thermometer (for precise sugar temperature control)
✔ Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
- Wash and dry the fruit thoroughly. Any moisture will prevent the sugar from sticking.
- Remove stems, pits, or seeds if necessary.
- Skewer the fruit onto bamboo sticks, ensuring space between each piece for even coating.
Step 2: Make the Sugar Syrup
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water over medium-high heat.
- Add ½ teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice to prevent sugar crystallization.
- Do not stir the mixture, as stirring can cause the syrup to become grainy.
- Let the syrup boil until it reaches 300–310°F (149–154°C) (hard-crack stage).
- No candy thermometer? Test the syrup by dropping a small amount into ice water—if it hardens immediately and snaps when broken, it’s ready.
Step 3: Coat the Fruit in Sugar Syrup
- Turn the heat to low to keep the syrup fluid.
- Quickly dip each fruit skewer into the syrup, rotating to coat evenly.
- Let the excess syrup drip off, then place the skewers on parchment paper or a cooling rack.
- Work quickly, as the sugar hardens within seconds.
Step 4: Let the Tanghulu Harden and Enjoy
- Allow the tanghulu to cool at room temperature until the sugar is completely hardened.
- Serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
- Store at room temperature—refrigeration can cause the sugar to become sticky.
Expert Tips for Perfect Tanghulu
✔ Use completely dry fruit – Moisture will prevent the sugar from sticking properly.
✔ Do not stir the sugar syrup – Stirring leads to unwanted crystallization.
✔ Use a candy thermometer – Ensures the sugar reaches the hard-crack stage.
✔ Work quickly – The sugar hardens in seconds, so coat the fruit fast.
✔ Avoid humid conditions – Humidity can cause the sugar shell to become soft and sticky.
Tanghulu Variations and Creative Twists
Tanghulu can be customized in many fun and creative ways:
✔ Chocolate Tanghulu – Once cooled, dip in melted chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.
✔ Nut-Coated Tanghulu – Sprinkle with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds before the sugar sets.
✔ Flavored Syrup Tanghulu – Add vanilla, citrus zest, or cinnamon to the sugar syrup.
✔ Spicy Tanghulu – A unique twist with a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper.
Where to Find Tanghulu
Tanghulu is commonly sold in Chinese street markets, festivals, and night bazaars. Some of the best places to try authentic tanghulu include:
✔ Beijing’s Wangfujing Snack Street – The birthplace of traditional hawthorn tanghulu.
✔ Shanghai’s Yuyuan Bazaar – Offers modern variations like strawberry and kiwi tanghulu.
✔ Taipei’s Shilin Night Market – Known for a wide variety of candied fruit treats.
✔ Chinese New Year Markets – A festive favorite during Lunar New Year.
Final Thoughts on Making Tanghulu at Home
Making tanghulu at home is easier than it looks. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a crunchy, sweet, and colorful treat that is perfect for snacking, parties, and celebrations. Whether you stick to traditional hawthorn tanghulu or experiment with strawberries, grapes, and citrus fruits, this easy tanghulu recipe ensures perfect results every time.
Try this authentic tanghulu recipe today and enjoy one of China’s most famous street snacks!