Homemade Tea Candies: A Sweet Twist on Your Favorite Brew
If you’re a tea lover who’s also got a sweet tooth, this one’s for you. These homemade tea candies combine the comforting flavor of steeped tea with the satisfying crunch of a hard candy. They’re perfect for tea time, gifting, or just soothing your throat with a touch of sweetness.
Crafted with real tea essence and simple pantry staples, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Why I Love This Recipe
Tea candies offer the best of both worlds—soothing tea flavor and the nostalgic feel of hard candy. What’s amazing is how customizable they are: use your favorite blend, from classic Earl Grey to spicy chai or floral jasmine.
Plus, they look beautiful in glass jars or gift bags, making them a thoughtful homemade present.
Ingredients
- 1 Cup White Sugar
- 100 ml Glucose Syrup (or 115g light corn syrup)
- 1/3 Cup Tea Essence
- 1/8 Cup Loose Tea Leaves or 6 Tea Bags
- 2/3 Cup Boiling Water
Notes on Ingredients
- Tea Essence: Steeping and reducing the tea concentrates its flavor. Choose a bold tea for best results.
- Glucose or Corn Syrup: Prevents crystallization and ensures smooth texture.
- Flavor Ideas: Try chai for spice, green tea for subtle earthiness, or mint for a fresh twist.
How to Make Tea Candies
1. Make the Tea Essence
- Steep loose tea or tea bags in boiling water for at least 10 minutes.
- Strain well and reduce over low heat until only 1/3 cup of liquid remains.
2. Combine the Base
- In a saucepan, mix sugar, glucose syrup, and your tea essence.
- Heat gently and stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Cook to Hard Crack Stage
- Attach a candy thermometer. Let the mixture boil without stirring until it reaches 164°C (330°F).
- Use a wet pastry brush to prevent sugar crystals from forming on the sides of the pan.
4. Prepare the Candy Molds
- While the syrup cooks, grease a tray or silicone molds with cooking spray.
5. Pour and Score
- Once the syrup hits temperature, remove from heat and immediately pour into prepared molds or tray.
- After 5 minutes, lightly score the surface with a knife to help break it later.
6. Cool and Break
- Let the candy set at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Once firm, break along the scored lines or pop from molds.
Tips for Success
- Choose strong tea blends for a bolder flavor in the final candy.
- Don’t stir once boiling begins—stirring can cause crystallization.
- Work quickly when pouring into molds; the mixture hardens fast.
- Store in an airtight container with parchment layers to prevent sticking.
Flavor Variations
- Honey Lemon Green Tea: Add a drop of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey.
- Chai Latte Candy: Use chai tea and a splash of vanilla.
- Minty Black Tea: Steep mint leaves with your black tea for a cooling finish.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Pair with an afternoon cup of tea or espresso
- Wrap in parchment and tuck into gift bags
- Enjoy with chocolate chip cookie dough brownie bombs
- Serve on a snack tray with caramel apple nachos
- Enjoy as a sweet after-dinner treat with no-bake Oreo cream pie
More Recipes You’ll Love
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- This Edible Cookie Dough Is My Favorite No-Bake Treat for Late Night Cravings
- These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat to Bake on Repeat
- This No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie Is My Favorite Quick Dessert Hack
- These Caramel Apple Nachos Are My Favorite Quick Fall Dessert Trick
Final Thoughts
These tea candies are a sweet celebration of your favorite brew. They’re simple, soothing, and just the right amount of nostalgic. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying solo, they’re sure to bring a smile and a little comfort in every bite.
If you give this recipe a try, tag @chefmaniac and share your sweet creations! Subscribe for more cozy kitchen projects and creative recipes. 🍬☕️
