Take Your Candy up a Notch
Are you ready to take your candy game to the next level? Look no further than freeze-dried candy! Not only is it incredibly fun to make, but it's also a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. In this guide, we'll explore the best candies to use, answer some frequently asked questions, and go over exactly how to use your freeze dryer for candy. And if YOU want your very own freeze-dried candy machine, feel free to check our our very own selection of high quality freeze-dryers.
The Best Candies for Freeze Drying
When it comes to freeze-dried candy, the possibilities are endless. Here are some of our top choices that are sure to satisfy:
- Nerd Clusters: These chewy treats transform into crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth bites with a punch of flavor that is simply irresistible.
- Gummy Worms: Another chewy candy that turns into an experience that is just too good to pass up. The different colors in gummy worms often represent different flavors, and freeze drying lets you experience them like never before!
- Salt Water Taffy: Nick-named the "Narwhal Nugget", you can't freeze dry candy without giving this a try.
- Jolly Ranchers: Make sure to cut these bad boys in half and leave ample space. They will puff up so large that they try to stick to each other and the tray above!
- Skittles: Enjoy the very popular and down-right delicious form of freeze-dried skittles, Eating these in a crispy, airy form will always be a crowd favorite.
The Method: How to Freeze Dry Candy
Now that you know which candies to choose, it's time to start the process of freeze drying:
- Preparation: Start by selecting your favorite candies and arranging them on a tray lined with parchment paper or a Blue Alpine silicone mat. The load size is dependent on how much the candy expands. Some candies will double in size, so make sure to leave enough room around each piece. Also, smaller candies freeze dry better, so try to break up any bigger candies into smaller pieces. One thing to note is that not all gummy candy brands are created equal. Though delicious, it may take some testing to find a brand of gummies that successfully freeze dries.
- Pre-warming: Believe it or not, you don't need to freeze your candy before freeze drying, and in some cases, you need to pre-warm your candies in your oven to get the best results. For example, Lemon Heads may need to be preheated up to 300-350 degrees Fahrenheit. This will allow the sugar to get soft enough to puff up like it should.
- Freeze Drying: With a Blue Alpine Freeze Dryer, the user is able to set the pressure limit for the recipe. This allows candy to freeze dry much faster than other foods. With the Blue Alpine, set the shelf temperature to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. The Blue Alpine also has a unique "Candy Prewarm" feature for certain hard candies that need more heat to help puff up and freeze dry, like Jolly Ranchers.
- Drying Times: Here is a list of drying times for popular candies:
- Skittles: 1-2 hours
- Gummy candies: 3-6 hours
- Nerd Clusters: 4-6 hours
- Salt water taffy: 3-5 hours
- Enjoy: Once the freeze drying process is complete, it's time to indulge in your homemade freeze-dried candy! Share it with friends and family or keep it all to yourself - the choice is yours.
Now that you're armed with all the knowledge about freeze dried candy, it's time to embark on your sweet and crunchy adventure. Get creative, experiment with different candies, and enjoy the delightful results of using your freeze dryer for candy!
FAQs about Freeze Dried Candy
Q: Can I freeze dry any type of candy?
A: While most candies can be freeze dried, it's important to avoid candies with fillings or coatings that may not respond well to the process. For example, chocolate is high in oil but low in moisture. Stick to candies that have a solid structure for the best results. Jelly beans, Oreos, and peanut butter cups etc., won't have much success.
Q: How long does freeze dried candy last?
A: Like other freeze dried foods, freeze dried candy can last for up to 25 years or longer. However, we doubt it will stay uneaten for that long!
Q: Can I freeze dry homemade candy?
A: Absolutely! Homemade candies can be freeze dried just like store-bought ones.
Q: Can I make money with a freeze dryer?
A: Yes, you can make money! Many of our customers have had success selling freeze-dried candy. Some even made back the money spent on their machine in as little as three months! Skittles for example, when freeze dried, can be sold for 3-6x their original value.
Q: Can I use freeze dried candy in baking?
A: Yes, freeze dried candy can add a delightful crunch and burst of flavor to your baked goods. Simply crush the freeze dried candy and incorporate it into your favorite recipes.
Q: Where can I find a freeze dryer?
A: You can find high-quality freeze dryers for home use in our shop! Here at Blue Alpine, we strive to be a trusted provider of top-notch freeze drying machines. View our selection here to explore our range of products.
Q: Is selling freeze-dried candy illegal?
A: Selling freeze-dried candy is not illegal as long as you comply with local food safety regulations. Also, avoid using trademarked brand names without permission, as it may violate intellectual property laws, and you're good to go!
Q: What stores have freeze dried candy?
A: Freeze-dried candy is often available at local grocery stores, including specialty food shops. You can also purchase candy from online vendors. Check out your local farmers market as well to support your local freeze-dried food business.
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