Best Easy Hawthorn Candy Slices Recipe

Tangy hawthorn candy slices with sweet-sour flavor are a classic Chinese treat. A family snack with fresh, fruity hawthorn taste.

Cook 80 min Difficulty NORMAL 82 kcal
#low fat #traditional #Chinese snack
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • fresh hawthorn berries 2 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • sugar 1 cup
  • lemon juice 2 tbsp
  • water 1 cup
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 19 g 93%
Protein 0 g 0%
Fat 0 g 0%
Serving size 30g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Wash and stem hawthorn berries, then cut in half and remove seeds for smoother texture.

  2. 2

    In a saucepan, combine hawthorn berries and water, bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to simmer for 10-12 minutes until berries are soft.

  3. 3

    Use a blender or food processor to puree the softened berries until completely smooth; if desired, strain to remove skins.

  4. 4

    Return puree to the saucepan, add sugar and lemon juice, and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking, for 20-30 minutes until very thick and paste-like.

  5. 5

    Spread the thickened paste evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 1/4-inch thick, and allow to air-dry at room temperature 6–8 hours or until set (or bake at 175°F/80°C for 1–2 hours for quicker drying).

  6. 6

    Once fully set and cool, slice into rectangles or desired shapes, dust with extra sugar if desired, and store in an airtight container.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredient is fresh hawthorn berries, which lend the candy its signature tangy, sweet-sour flavor and vibrant color that define this classic treat.
Q. Is there a crucial step for texture in hawthorn candy slices?
Yes, it’s vital to cook the hawthorn puree slowly over medium-low heat and stir constantly after adding sugar and lemon juice. This ensures the paste thickens without burning, resulting in a chewy, sliceable texture rather than a sticky mess.
Q. How do I prevent my candy slices from sticking or becoming tough?
Avoid overcooking; remove the puree from heat as soon as it reaches a thick, paste-like consistency. Drying at a low temperature or air-drying helps create the right texture without toughness or excessive stickiness. Using parchment paper also prevents sticking.
Q. How many calories are in each serving, and what’s the main nutrient?
Each 30g serving contains approximately 82 kcal. The main nutrient is carbohydrates—at 19g per serving, they contribute about 93% of the calories. Fat and protein are essentially absent, making these candy slices a pure, sweet fruit-based treat.
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