Do you want to add some magic to your desserts? Look no further than edible crystals, the latest viral trend on TikTok! These stunning, jewel-like candies are not only mesmerizing to look at but also delightful to taste. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making edible crystals, specifically the popular Japanese candy known as Kohakutou. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this enchanting treat!

Unleash the Magic of Kohakutou Candy

Kohakutou, meaning “amber candy” in Japanese, is made using a special ingredient called Agar Agar. The candy is created by pouring flavored jelly into a dish and allowing it to set before cutting it into crystal shapes. What makes Kohakutou unique is the crunchy outer crust that forms after a few days, while the inside remains delightfully chewy.

I discovered this captivating recipe on Emmymade in Japan’s YouTube channel. The crystalizing gummies immediately caught my attention, and I knew they would be perfect for a geode cake or as stunning decorations for any sweet creation!

Crafting Kohakutou: A Simple Process

Making Kohakutou may seem like a complex task, but it is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s how you can create these edible gems:

Ingredients:

• Agar Agar powder
• Water
• Sugar
• Flavoring of your choice (such as cotton candy or fruit flavorings)
• Optional: a small amount of citric acid for a touch of tartness

Step 1: Dissolve Agar Agar and Boil

Begin by dissolving the Agar Agar in water and bringing it to a boil. Unlike gelatin, which should never be boiled, Agar Agar requires boiling to fully dissolve.

Step 2: Sweeten the Mixture

Next, add sugar to the boiling mixture and let it boil for 2-3 minutes. The high sugar content serves two purposes. First, it adds the essential sweetness that characterizes candy. Second, it initiates the chain reaction of crystalization.

Step 3: Flavor and Color

Remove the mixture from heat and add your desired flavoring. I chose cotton candy flavor to keep the jelly clear, and a hint of citric acid to balance the sweetness with a touch of tanginess.

Step 4: Create a Swirling Masterpiece

Pour the sugar mixture, approximately ½-inch thick, into a lightly oiled container. If you prefer, you can use multiple containers. To add a captivating touch, add a few drops of liquid food coloring and gently swirl them together. You’ll notice that the color tends to sit on top of the jelly, so use a skewer to create captivating swirls from the top to the bottom.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Place the container(s) in the refrigerator and let the mixture chill for a few hours. If you’re impatient like me, you’ll be pleased to know that mine set in just one hour!

Shaping the Crystals

Once your jelly mixture has fully set, it’s time to shape the crystals.

Begin by cutting the jelly into strips and then into 1-inch tall rectangles. To give them a true crystal-like appearance, use a paring knife to shape the tip into a point. Don’t forget to save the cut-off pieces to minimize waste!

Freshly cut Kohakutou crystals are clear and stunningly beautiful with a firm, transparent texture. You can even use them as is for cake decoration! However, over time, they develop a mesmerizing crystal skin.

A Scrumptious Culinary Adventure

What do these edible crystals taste like? Well, prepare to be enchanted! The texture of Kohakutou is slightly different from regular gummy candy, leaning towards softer and more delicate. The exquisite contrast between the gummy interior and the crunchy exterior is simply delightful.

Over time, the crystals develop a thicker crust, creating a captivating visual effect. To enhance their beauty, I painted the edges of my Kohakutou with a touch of gold paint, and they turned out simply stunning.

These edible crystals offer endless possibilities for creativity. Whether adorning a geode cake or serving as party favors, they are sure to leave a lasting impression! And the best part? Making them is incredibly affordable. Agar Agar powder, such as the Telephone brand I used, costs only about $0.80 per packet, making it a more cost-effective and tooth-friendly alternative to isomalt.

Preserve the Magic

You can store your Kohakutou candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. However, be aware that after some time, they may start to dry out and become too hard.

So, why not embark on a culinary adventure and unleash your creativity? Duu-duu-duu, it’s time to make some edible crystals and dazzle everyone with your newfound magical confectionery skills!

Want more gummy candy ideas? Check out these mouthwatering recipes:

• Wine Gummy
• Real Gummy Bear Recipe
• Beer Gummy

Recipe

• Agar Agar powder
• Water
• Sugar
• Flavoring of your choice (such as cotton candy or fruit flavorings)
• Optional: a small amount of citric acid for a touch of tartness

1. Dissolve Agar Agar in water and bring to a boil.
2. Add sugar and boil for 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and add flavoring.
4. Pour the mixture into a lightly oiled container, approximately ½-inch thick.
5. Add drops of liquid food coloring and swirl them together.
6. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours.
7. Once set, cut the jelly into crystal shapes.
8. Enjoy the mesmerizing taste and texture of your homemade edible crystals!