In this article, we will find out the best ways to make freeze dried candy at home.
What Is Freeze Dried Candy?
Freeze dried candy is made by removing all the moisture from candy using a freeze dryer. This process makes the candy puff up, become crunchy, and sometimes even more flavorful.
Popular candies like Skittles, Jolly Ranchers, and marshmallows are often freeze dried to create unique, crunchy snacks.
Why Is Freeze Dried Candy So Popular?
Freeze dried candy is loved for many reasons:
- It’s super crunchy and melts in your mouth.
- The flavors become stronger.
- It has a long shelf life.
- It’s a fun science experiment for candy lovers.
How Does Freeze Drying Work?
Freeze drying is a process called lyophilization. It involves:
- Freezing the candy at very low temperatures.
- Using a vacuum to remove the moisture by turning ice into vapor.
- Leaving behind dry, crunchy candy.
This keeps the structure and taste intact but removes all water content.
What You Need To Make Freeze Dried Candy At Home
Before you start, gather these tools and ingredients:
1. A Freeze Dryer
This is the most important tool. Home freeze dryers are available online but can be costly. Popular brands include:
- Harvest Right Freeze Dryer
- Labconco Freeze Dryers
2. Candy of Your Choice
The best candies for freeze drying include:
- Skittles
- Marshmallows
- Jolly Ranchers
- Gummy bears
- Caramel candies
- Taffy
3. Baking Sheet or Tray
You’ll place the candies on a tray inside the freeze dryer.
4. Airtight Containers
To store your freeze dried candy and keep them crunchy.
Step-By-Step: How To Make Freeze Dried Candy At Home
Step 1: Choose Your Candy
Pick candies that react well to freeze drying. Hard candies and chewy ones like gummies work best. Avoid chocolates, as they don’t freeze dry well.
Step 2: Arrange The Candy
Place the candy on the freeze dryer tray. Keep space between them to avoid sticking together.
Step 3: Start The Freeze Drying Process
Follow these simple steps:
- Turn on the freeze dryer.
- Set the temperature to around -40°F to -50°F.
- The drying process usually takes 24 to 48 hours.
Note: The machine freezes the candy first, then removes moisture using a vacuum.
Step 4: Check The Candy
After the process is complete, the candies should be light, puffy, and crunchy. If they are still chewy or sticky, run them through another cycle.
Step 5: Store Properly
Once done, store your freeze dried candy in:
- Airtight jars
- Vacuum sealed bags
- Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers
This prevents moisture from ruining your candy.
What Candies Work Best For Freeze Drying?
Candy Type | Freeze Drying Result |
Skittles | Puffy, crunchy, flavorful |
Marshmallows | Super light, crispy |
Gummy Bears | Crunchy outer shell, airy inside |
Jolly Ranchers | Crack easily, intense flavor |
Caramel Candies | Become brittle and crispy |
Taffy | Expands and hardens |
Tips For Perfect Freeze Dried Candy
- Use small batches for even results.
- Experiment with different candies to see what works.
- Keep candies spaced apart on the tray.
- Let the freeze dryer cool between batches.
- Store immediately after drying to avoid moisture absorption.
Can You Freeze Dry Candy Without A Freeze Dryer?
Technically, no. Freeze drying requires freezing at very low temperatures and using a vacuum to remove moisture, which regular home freezers or ovens cannot do.
Alternative Method (Not True Freeze Drying):
You can try using a dehydrator or oven to dry candy, but the texture and taste won’t be the same as real freeze dried candy.
How Much Does It Cost To Make Freeze Dried Candy At Home?
- Freeze Dryer Cost: $2,000 to $4,000 (one-time investment)
- Candy Cost: Depends on type and quantity
- Electricity Cost: Varies by region and machine usage
Is Freeze Dried Candy Safe To Eat?
Absolutely! As long as you use safe, store-bought candy and a clean freeze dryer, the process is safe. In fact, freeze drying is often used in the food industry to preserve snacks.
How Long Does Freeze Dried Candy Last?
When stored properly in airtight containers, freeze dried candy can last up to 25 years. However, for best flavor and crunchiness, enjoy it within a year.
My Personal Experience With Freeze Dried Candy
Trying Freeze Drying At Home
The first time I tried making freeze dried candy at home, I was both excited and nervous. I invested in a small Harvest Right freeze dryer and grabbed a bag of Skittles and marshmallows.
Placing the candy on the trays, I started the machine and waited for almost two days. When I opened the door, I was amazed! The Skittles had puffed up and were super crunchy. The marshmallows were so light they almost floated.
It was fun watching how different candies react. Some expanded more than I expected, and the flavors became more intense. Now, I often make freeze dried candy for parties and family gatherings. It’s always a hit!
Pros And Cons Of Making Freeze Dried Candy At Home
Pros:
✅ Fun and satisfying process
✅ Unique, crunchy treats
✅ Long shelf life
✅ Great for gifting or selling
Cons:
❌ Expensive freeze dryer
❌ Long processing time
❌ Some candies don’t freeze dry well
Conclusion
Making freeze dried candy at home is a fun, tasty hobby that turns regular sweets into crunchy, flavorful treats. While it requires a good freeze dryer and patience, the results are worth it. Whether you want snacks for yourself, gifts for friends, or even a small business idea, freeze dried candy is a great option.
FAQ's: How To Make Freeze Dried Candy At Home
Q1: What is the best candy to freeze dry?
Ans: Skittles, marshmallows, and Jolly Ranchers are some of the best candies for freeze drying because they react well and become deliciously crunchy.
Q2: Can I freeze dry chocolate?
Ans: No, chocolate doesn’t freeze dry well. It tends to melt or lose its texture during the process.
Q3: How long does it take to freeze dry candy?
Ans: It usually takes 24 to 48 hours, depending on the candy type and freeze dryer settings.
