First things first—thank YOU for stopping by. Whether you’re a longtime reader or new to the blog, I appreciate you being here, especially today, because I’m beyond excited to share this sweet blast from the past with a modern twist. Kool-Aid Popping Candy Licorice is nostalgic, fun, and incredibly easy to make at home. It’s got crunch, fizz, chew, and an explosion of flavor that just screams summer.
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Why You’ll Love This Kool-Aid Popping Candy Licorice
This is not your average candy. Oh no—we’re talking licorice sticks lovingly dipped in a tangy Kool-Aid candy shell, and then sprinkled (or loaded) with crackling, fizzy popping candy. It’s DIY meets childhood dream!
What It Tastes Like
Think of your favorite Kool-Aid flavor—but intensified! The outer shell is tangy and sweet with a satisfying crunch, while the licorice gives a chewy finish. And just when you think it’s done, the popping candy kicks in for a fizzy, mouth-tingling surprise. It’s whimsical, it’s exciting, and anything but boring!!
Why This Recipe Works
- No candy-making experience needed—just a thermometer and some patience!
- Perfect for parties, holidays, or just because.
- Kids love it. Adults? Honestly, we go back for seconds.
- Totally customizable with flavors and colors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 packet Kool-Aid (any flavor—get wild!)
- 1 teaspoon citric acid
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup popping candy (like Pop Rocks)
- 1 package red licorice sticks (or any color)
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Tongs (for dipping!)
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
- Licorice: Not a fan of red? Use black, rainbow, or even sour belts!
- Kool-Aid: Try tropical punch, grape, blue raspberry—you do you.
- Popping Candy: Some brands have flavored varieties—go matchy-matchy or mix it up.
How to Make Kool-Aid Popping Candy Licorice
Step-by-Step
- Prep First
Line your baking sheet with parchment and place licorice sticks in rows. You’ll need easy access once the candy is ready. - Make the Candy Mixture
Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Stir gently until sugar dissolves. - Heat to Hard Crack Stage
Bring mixture to a boil. Monitor with a candy thermometer—you’re aiming for 300°F. This is crucial for the perfect crunch. - Flavor Explosion Time
Remove from heat. Stir in Kool-Aid, citric acid, and baking soda. It’ll foam—this is your cue to move fast! - Coat the Licorice
Quickly dip or drizzle the hot mixture over the licorice sticks. Coat thoroughly. - Add the Pop
Immediately sprinkle with popping candy. Do this before it cools or the candy won’t stick! - Let It Set
Cool completely before serving—if you can wait that long!
What to Serve It With
- Ice cream sundaes (break it up for a wild topping!)
- Party dessert boards
- Movie night snack mix (trust me, it works)
Candy-Making Tips
- Use a candy thermometer! Guessing doesn’t work here.
- Keep kids at a safe distance—boiling sugar is no joke.
- Work quickly once the candy is foamy; it sets fast.
Storage Instructions
Store your Kool-Aid Popping Candy Licorice in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Don’t refrigerate—it can make the candy sticky and ruin the crunch!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without a thermometer?
You really shouldn’t—temperature accuracy is key to candy texture. Invest in a cheap candy thermometer, and you’ll use it again!
Can I add the Pop Rocks into the mixture instead?
Yes, for more fizz inside the candy! But be aware they may lose some of their pop when exposed to heat.
What flavors work best?
Grape and tropical punch are classic hits, but blue raspberry with blue licorice? Show-stopper.
A Final Sweet Note
This Kool-Aid Popping Candy Licorice is pure joy on a stick. It’s got that DIY wow-factor and makes any gathering more fun. Whether you’re making it with kids, for a retro-themed party, or just for the love of candy, this treat brings the sparkle—literally and figuratively.
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Share the Love!
Tried this recipe? Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share your candy creations on Pinterest—tag us so we can see!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 22g
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Carbs: 30g
Note: These are estimates. The actual nutritional content will vary based on licorice brand and Kool-Aid flavor used.
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