Candied Strawberries are a dazzling treat that bridges the gap between pure nostalgia and gourmet indulgence. Imagine glossy, glimmering strawberries, bursting with the flavor of summer, gently candied for irresistible sweetness and a chewy texture you won’t soon forget. This delightful recipe transforms everyday berries into jewels that can elevate dessert platters, charm at gift-giving, or simply offer you a taste of sunny days when you need it most. Whether you’re looking to preserve your strawberry haul or surprise loved ones with something special, Candied Strawberries are truly a kitchen adventure worth savoring.

Candied Strawberries Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how easy it is to make Candied Strawberries, thanks to a short ingredient list where each component shines. Fresh strawberries star at the heart, while sugar and water work together to coat them in a translucent, irresistible glaze that locks in flavor and vibrant color.

Fresh Strawberries: Choose ripe, firm berries for the best flavor and color; avoid overly soft ones so they hold their shape during candying.
Sugar: Granulated white sugar is key, providing both sweetness and the essential candy shell after cooking.
Water: Acts as the base for your syrup, ensuring an even coating on each berry and encouraging gentle cooking.

How to Make Candied Strawberries

Step 1: Create the Sugar Syrup

Start by pouring one liter of water into a large pot and adding 800 grams of sugar. Place the pot on the stove, stir gently to dissolve the sugar completely, and then allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the syrup looks clear and slightly thickened—this is the magical base that will coat our strawberries.

Step 2: Candy the Strawberries

Gently add your fresh strawberries to the simmering syrup. Keep the pot at a gentle boil and let the berries cook for about 10 minutes, turning them gently if needed so each berry gets completely glossy. The strawberries will plump up and their bright red color will become even more vibrant as they soak in the sugary magic.

Step 3: Strain and Prepare for Drying

Once the berries have been candied, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully strain the syrup from the strawberries using a fine mesh strainer or slotted spoon. Let the berries rest briefly so any excess syrup drips away—this sets the stage for their chewy, candied texture.

Step 4: Oven Dry the Strawberries

Preheat your oven to 200°F (just warm enough to dry them out without burning). Lay the syrup-drained strawberries evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment or a silicone mat. Slide the tray into the oven. This is where patience pays off: dry the strawberries for about 5 hours, turning them over every hour or so. The goal is berries that are dry and slightly tacky on the outside but still tender inside.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy

Once perfectly dried, let your Candied Strawberries cool at room temperature. They’ll firm up a bit as they cool and become perfectly chewy. Enjoy them right away as a craveable snack, or tuck them into jars to store for later—if you can resist!

How to Serve Candied Strawberries

Garnishes

Candied Strawberries look stunning on their own, but a sprinkling of powdered sugar or a drizzle of dark chocolate can make them irresistible for special occasions. Try rolling the still-warm strawberries in finely crushed pistachios, or thread a few on skewers with fresh mint leaves for a classy party platter.

Side Dishes

Pair these beauties with a bowl of creamy vanilla ice cream or a slice of lemon pound cake for a show-stopping summer dessert. You can also serve Candied Strawberries alongside other preserved fruits for a charming, rustic after-dinner treat—perfect with a cup of tea or your favorite sparkling beverage.

Creative Ways to Present

For an unforgettable presentation, arrange the Candied Strawberries in clear glass jars tied with ribbon for sweet homemade gifts. Or scatter them over a frosted cake for pop-of-color flair. Kids especially love threading them onto sticks for fruity, jewel-like “lollipops.” The possibilities for sharing and enjoying Candied Strawberries are nearly endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Candied Strawberries in an airtight container or mason jar at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or excess moisture. Properly stored, they’ll keep their chewy texture and bright flavor for several weeks, letting you snack any time the craving hits.

Freezing

If you need to store Candied Strawberries for an extended period, they freeze beautifully. Lay them out on a parchment-lined tray to freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag or airtight container. This helps prevent them from sticking together. Properly frozen, they can last for up to a year.

Reheating

Candied Strawberries are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you’d like to soften them a touch after freezing or extended storage, let them thaw on the counter or warm gently in a low oven for 5-10 minutes. This helps restore that fresh-from-the-oven texture and makes them extra inviting.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries work best for this recipe, as frozen berries tend to release more water and can get mushy during candying and drying. If fresh are unavailable, thaw frozen berries fully and pat them as dry as possible before starting, but note the texture may differ.

Why did my Candied Strawberries turn out sticky or soggy?

This usually happens if the berries weren’t dried long enough or if there’s too much moisture left on them before going into the oven. Make sure to bake until the exterior is dry to the touch and allow them to cool fully before storing.

What can I do with leftover syrup?

Don’t throw it away! The strawberry-infused syrup left over can be drizzled over pancakes, stirred into sparkling water, or used as a sweetener for iced tea or cocktails. It holds delightful berry flavor and adds a touch of homemade charm to many drinks and desserts.

How do I keep the strawberries from sticking together during storage?

Once fully cooled, you can lightly dust the Candied Strawberries with a bit of powdered sugar or cornstarch to keep them from sticking. Storing them in a single layer or layering with parchment paper also helps.

Can I make Candied Strawberries with less sugar?

Sugar is essential for candying and preserving, but you can experiment with reducing the amount slightly or mixing in a bit of honey. Just keep in mind that too little sugar may affect the final texture and how long the berries keep.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re inspired to try this recipe and discover how easy and magical homemade Candied Strawberries can be—whether you’re looking to treat yourself, impress a crowd, or just preserve a taste of summer. Let your kitchen be filled with berry-bright joy, and don’t forget to share your creations with those you love!