sugar hawthorn recipe

How to Make Candied Hawthorn: A Step-by-Step Guide

Candied hawthorn, a beloved traditional snack, balances sweet and tart flavors with a chewy texture. Here’s a simple guide to making it at home.

First, prepare 500g fresh hawthorns. Wash them thoroughly, remove the stems, and poke each hawthorn several times with a toothpick to prevent cracking during cooking. For a softer texture, soak them in salted water for 10 minutes, then rinse.

Next, cook the hawthorns. In a pot, combine them with 500g sugar, 500ml water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then simmer for 20–30 minutes, stirring gently, until the syrup thickens and the hawthorns turn glossy. For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of honey or lemon juice during the last 5 minutes.

Once cooked, let the hawthorns cool in the syrup to absorb more sweetness. Drain and roll them in granulated sugar or a mixture of sugar and sesame seeds for a crunchy coating. Air-dry for 1–2 hours until the surface is slightly hardened.

Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Enjoy this guilt-free treat as a snack or dessert, perfect for satisfying cravings while offering a nostalgic twist!