Tanghulu, also known as Chinese candied fruit, is a delightful street snack that features fresh fruit coated in a crisp, golden sugar shell. Originally made with hawthorn berries, this sweet-and-tart treat has evolved to include strawberries, grapes, oranges, and more. The contrast between the crunchy sugar and the juicy fruit makes tanghulu an irresistible snack for both children and adults.
In this detailed step-by-step guide, we provide an easy tanghulu recipe that guarantees perfect results every time. With just a few ingredients and some simple techniques, you’ll be able to make crispy, shiny, and delicious tanghulu at home.
What Is Tanghulu?
Tanghulu (糖葫芦) is a traditional Chinese snack consisting of fruit skewered on a stick and coated with a hard sugar shell. It originated during the Song Dynasty and was traditionally made with hawthorn berries, but modern versions now use a variety of fruits.
Why Is Tanghulu So Popular?
✔ Crispy and crunchy – The sugar shell shatters beautifully with each bite.
✔ Sweet and tangy – The fruit inside balances the sweetness of the caramelized coating.
✔ Visually stunning – The glossy sugar glaze enhances the fruit’s natural color.
✔ Simple ingredients – Requires only sugar, water, and fruit.
✔ Fun and easy to make – A perfect treat for parties, holidays, and special occasions.
Best Fruits for Making Tanghulu
Although the traditional choice is hawthorn berries, there are many fruits that work well for making tanghulu. The key is to choose fruits with a firm texture and low moisture content.
Best Fruits for Tanghulu
✔ Hawthorn Berries – The classic option with a tart, slightly crunchy texture.
✔ Strawberries – Sweet, juicy, and visually appealing.
✔ Grapes (Red or Green) – Firm, naturally sweet, and bite-sized.
✔ Mandarin Orange Segments – Slightly tart with a refreshing citrus flavor.
✔ Kiwi Slices – Vibrant green color and tangy taste.
✔ Blueberries – A great option for mini tanghulu skewers.
Fruits to Avoid
✘ Bananas & Mangoes – Too soft and prone to falling apart.
✘ Watermelon & Melon – Too high in water content, which prevents proper sugar adhesion.
Easy Tanghulu Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
This simple recipe ensures you get perfect, crunchy tanghulu with minimal effort. Follow these steps carefully for professional-quality results.
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 (prevents sugar crystallization)
✔ Bamboo skewers or toothpicks
Equipment Needed
✔ Heavy-bottomed saucepan
✔ Candy thermometer (for precise temperature control)
✔ Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
- Wash and dry the fruit completely. Any moisture on the fruit will prevent the sugar from sticking properly.
- Remove stems, pits, or seeds if necessary.
- Skewer the fruit onto bamboo sticks, leaving space between each piece for even coating.
Step 2: Prepare 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 the sugar from crystallizing too early.
- Allow the mixture to heat without stirring until it reaches 300–310°F (149–154°C) (hard-crack stage).
- No candy thermometer? Drop a small amount of syrup into ice water—if it hardens immediately and breaks cleanly, it’s ready.
Step 3: Coat the Fruit with Sugar Syrup
- Turn the heat to low to keep the syrup fluid.
- Quickly dip each fruit skewer into the hot syrup, rotating it to ensure an even, thin coating.
- Allow excess syrup to drip off before placing the skewers on parchment paper or a cooling rack.
- Work quickly! The sugar hardens within seconds.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
- Let the tanghulu cool at room temperature until the sugar shell is completely hardened.
- Enjoy immediately for the best crisp texture.
- Store at room temperature—refrigeration will cause the sugar shell to become sticky.
Expert Tips for Perfect Tanghulu
✔ Use completely dry fruit – Moisture prevents the sugar from sticking.
✔ Avoid stirring the sugar syrup – Stirring causes crystallization and ruins the texture.
✔ Use a candy thermometer – Ensures the sugar reaches the correct temperature.
✔ Work quickly – The sugar sets almost immediately.
✔ Do not refrigerate – Humidity will soften the sugar coating.
Tanghulu Variations and Creative Twists
Tanghulu can be customized in many fun and delicious ways:
✔ Chocolate Tanghulu – Once cooled, dip in melted chocolate for a double-layered treat.
✔ Nut-Coated Tanghulu – Sprinkle crushed peanuts or sesame seeds before the sugar hardens.
✔ Flavored Syrup Tanghulu – Infuse the sugar syrup with vanilla, citrus zest, or cinnamon.
✔ Spicy Tanghulu – Add a pinch of chili powder for a unique kick.
Where to Find Tanghulu
Tanghulu is widely available at street markets, festivals, and Chinese cultural celebrations. Some of the best places to try authentic tanghulu include:
✔ Wangfujing Snack Street (Beijing) – Famous for traditional hawthorn berry tanghulu.
✔ Shanghai’s Yuyuan Bazaar – Offers modern variations like kiwi and grape tanghulu.
✔ Taipei’s Shilin Night Market – A popular destination for candied fruit lovers.
✔ Chinese New Year Markets – A festive favorite during Lunar New Year celebrations.
Final Thoughts on Making Tanghulu at Home
Tanghulu is an easy, fun, and delicious snack that you can easily make at home with just a few ingredients. The combination of crispy sugar and juicy fruit creates a unique and satisfying texture that everyone will love. Whether you’re making classic hawthorn berry tanghulu or experimenting with modern variations like strawberry and grape, this easy tanghulu recipe ensures perfect results every time.
Give this simple tanghulu recipe a try and enjoy one of China’s most iconic street snacks!