Strawberries and Pineapple Candy: A Sweet Treat Recipe You’ll Love

Strawberries and Pineapple Candy is a delightful treat that brings a burst of tropical flavor to your palate. As a child, I remember the joy of indulging in this sweet confection during summer picnics, where the vibrant colors and tantalizing taste would instantly lift my spirits. This candy not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also carries a rich history, often associated with festive gatherings and celebrations in various cultures. The combination of juicy strawberries and tangy pineapple creates a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

People love Strawberries and Pineapple Candy for its chewy texture and refreshing taste, which makes it an ideal snack for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a party or simply want to treat yourself, this candy is both convenient to make and utterly delicious. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a staple in your home!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 2 cups fresh pineapple, diced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Fruit

1. Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any dirt or debris. Once clean, hull the strawberries by removing the green tops and slicing them in half. This will help them absorb the syrup better later on. 2. Next, take your fresh pineapple. If you have a whole pineapple, cut off the top and bottom to create a stable base. Stand it upright and carefully slice off the skin, following the curve of the fruit. Once peeled, cut the pineapple into quarters, remove the core, and then dice the flesh into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using pre-cut pineapple, just measure out 2 cups.

Making the Candy Syrup

3. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, and salt. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves. This should take about 3-5 minutes. 4. Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to boil for about 2-3 minutes without stirring. You want to create a syrup that is slightly thickened but not too sticky. 5. After boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon (if using). The cinnamon adds a lovely warmth to the candy, but feel free to skip it if you prefer a more straightforward flavor.

Combining the Fruit and Syrup

6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared strawberries and diced pineapple. Pour the warm syrup over the fruit, ensuring that all pieces are well-coated. Gently toss the fruit with the syrup using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to mash the strawberries; you want them to retain their shape. 7. Once the fruit is well-coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the fruit to absorb the syrup and enhances the flavor.

Cooking the Candy

8. After the resting period, it’s time to cook the fruit mixture. Transfer the fruit and syrup to a large skillet or frying pan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring gently to prevent sticking. 9. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice the syrup thickening and the fruit becoming tender. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn. If the syrup gets too thick, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up. 10. Once the fruit is tender and the syrup has thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Let it cool for a few minutes before transferring the mixture to a clean bowl.

Assembling the Candy

11. To serve, you can either enjoy the strawberries and pineapple warm or let them cool completely. If you prefer a chilled treat, place the bowl in the refrigerator for about an hour. 12. If you want to add a little extra flair, sprinkle shredded coconut over the top just before serving. The coconut adds a delightful texture and a tropical touch that complements the fruit beautifully.

Storing the Candy

13. If you have any leftovers (which is rare because this candy is so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The candy will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day! 14. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can serve them cold straight from the fridge or gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds. Just be careful not to overheat, as you want to maintain the fruit’s texture.

Serving Suggestions

15. This strawberries and pineapple candy can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas: – Serve it over vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert. – Use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles for a fruity breakfast treat. – Mix it into yogurt for a delicious snack or breakfast option. – Serve it as a side dish at barbecues or picnics; it

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this Strawberries and Pineapple Candy recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a sweet, fruity treat that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of juicy strawberries and tropical pineapple creates a delightful balance that is not only refreshing but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing for a summer gathering, a birthday party, or simply want to enjoy a sweet snack at home, this candy is sure to impress your friends and family. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these candies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert or using them as a topping for yogurt or pancakes. You can also experiment with variations by adding a sprinkle of coconut or a drizzle of chocolate to elevate the flavors even further. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Strawberries and Pineapple Candy recipe a try and share your experience with me. I would love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative twists you added along the way. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and let the sweet flavors of summer brighten your day! Print