Description
This microwave tanghulu recipe is a fun, budget-friendly twist on the traditional Chinese candied fruit snack. Made with simple ingredients and no candy thermometer, it delivers the same satisfying crunch with minimal cleanup—perfect for a quick treat or a fun cooking activity with kids.
Ingredients
1 cup white granulated sugar
½ cup water
¼ cup grapes
1 small orange, peeled and cubed
½ mango, diced
Toothpicks or mini skewers
Instructions
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Rinse and thoroughly dry the fruit to ensure the syrup sticks properly.
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Thread 2–3 pieces of fruit onto each toothpick or mini skewer and set aside.
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Line a baking tray with parchment paper and prepare a bowl of ice water for syrup testing.
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In a microwave-safe glass cup or bowl, combine sugar and water.
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Microwave in 30-second intervals until the mixture is bubbling rapidly and turns a light amber color (about 2½ to 3 minutes). Do not stir.
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Test the syrup by dipping a spoon or chopstick in it and then into the ice water. If it hardens and snaps, it’s ready.
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Working quickly and carefully, dip each fruit skewer into the syrup, swirling to coat.
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Place coated skewers on the parchment-lined tray to cool and set for 2–3 minutes.
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Enjoy immediately or store as directed.
Notes
Tanghulu is best when fresh, but leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to a week.
Use any fruit you have on hand—grapes and oranges work especially well.
Avoid stirring the syrup to prevent crystallization.
Wooden chopsticks or toothpicks can be substituted for skewers.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Microwave
- Cuisine: Chinese-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 1mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: easy microwave tanghulu recipe, candied fruit, DIY tanghulu, Chinese candy, budget dessert, crunchy fruit snack