Freeze dried candy is an exciting and creative way to transform your favorite candies into irresistibly crunchy snacks, thanks to the freeze drying process's ability to transform their texture, enhance flavor, and alter how quickly it dissolves on your tongue.
Freeze dried candy can be purchased from some specialty grocery stores and online, or made at home using a standard freeze dryer machine. Making freeze dried candy yourself makes for an easy and delicious treat, and can even provide a fun activity for kids! Freeze dried candies can be eaten as-is or mixed into recipes to add crunch; plus they're easily transportable and store without the need to rehydrate regularly; making it great to bring along camping trips or use in trail mix creation!
There is a variety of candies that freeze dry well, although each responds differently. High sugar candy such as regular skittles tend to work best due to the outer layer remaining the same while its inner texture puffs up creating an exciting contrast between crunchy coating and chewy center. Caramel M&Ms are another favorite choice as the hard candy shell and chocolate remain intact while their caramel center expands and puffs for an unforgettable contrast between crunchy coating and chewy interior.
Prep candies for freeze drying by placing them on a cooling rack or tray lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mat, then fill a Styrofoam cooler or other well-insulated container with crushed dry ice. Place candies carefully over it while covering it, making sure there's enough space between each piece for even freeze drying. If using a jar-style freeze dryer, switch its setting from "Normal" to "High Temperature Mode, Candy Process."
