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Homemade Pop Rocks (Fizzy Candy Blocks)

Vibrant, rectangular hard candy gems coated in a sour-sweet citric acid blend. These homemade treats offer a satisfying glass-like crunch and a fizzy flavor explosion similar to the nostalgic classic.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 40 pieces
Course: Candy, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 45

Ingredients
  

Candy Base
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.66 cup light corn syrup
  • 0.75 cup water
  • 1 dram flavoring oil LorAnn oils recommended
  • 2-3 drops gel food coloring assorted colors
Fizzy Coating
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp citric acid adjust to taste for sourness
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar optional, prevents sticking

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Candy thermometer
  • 8x8 Baking pan or Silicone Molds
  • Pizza cutter or Kitchen shears

Method
 

  1. Prepare an 8x8 inch pan by lining it with parchment paper and spraying lightly with cooking oil.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
  3. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Insert candy thermometer. Do NOT stir once it boils.
  4. Boil until mixture reaches 300°F (149°C) - the 'Hard Crack' stage.
  5. Remove from heat immediately. Let bubbles settle for 30 seconds, then stir in flavor oil and food coloring.
  6. Pour hot mixture into the prepared pan. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes until firm but still warm and pliable.
  7. Using a greased pizza cutter or knife, score the candy into long strips, then crosswise into rectangles. Retrace cuts deeply.
  8. Allow to cool completely (about 30 mins) until rock hard. Snap along the scored lines to separate pieces.
  9. Mix the coating sugar and citric acid in a bowl. Toss the candy pieces in the mixture to coat.

Notes

For multiple colors, it is best to make separate half-batches rather than trying to divide hot syrup which hardens instantly.