Where to Find the Sweet, Tart Joy of Candied Grapes for Snacking and Holiday Treats

The Sweet and Tart Appeal of Candied Grapes

Grapes are a delicious and popular fruit that can be enjoyed on their own or used in a variety of recipes. But for those with a serious sweet tooth, candied grapes take this tasty fruit to a whole new level of flavor and texture. Candied grapes are fresh grapes that have been coated in sugar, creating a sweet, sticky exterior that contrasts beautifully with the still-tangy grape interior. They make a fun snack or decoration, adding a burst of flavor and color to any occasion. Here's what you need to know about finding and enjoying this nostalgic treat.

The Classic Flavor Combination

Coating fresh grapes in a sweet, crystalline layer of sugar is a classic preparation technique that has likely been around for centuries. The rich, concentrated sweetness of the sugar complements the zingy acidity of the grape beautifully. Every juicy bite bursts with a layered interplay of flavors - sweet yet tangy, sticky yet fresh. Visually, the translucent, jewel-toned grapes take on an enticing sparkle enrobed in their crunchy white sugar coat. Candied grapes have an old-fashioned appeal, evoking nostalgia for vintage confections and sweets shops.

Fun for Snacking, Garnishes and Desserts

Candied grapes are often eaten as a snack, saved for special movie nights or holiday celebrations. They also make festive garnishes for desserts and cheese boards. Try using them to top cupcakes, cakes, tarts or puddings. Kids and adults alike will love their eye-catching appearance and candy-like flavor. For parties, candied grapes can be placed in small cups or bags as fun DIY party favors. You can also incorporate them into more elaborate presentations, like grape-studded cheese balls or mini fruit skewers. Their versatility and nostalgic charm make candied grapes a great addition to gatherings and potlucks.

Making Your Own Candied Grapes at Home

Thankfully, candied grapes are easy to make at home. This allows you to customize the flavors and control the quality of ingredients. All you need is fresh grapes, sugar and egg whites.

Start by washing red, green or black seedless grapes and patting them dry. Next, whip some egg whites until they are foamy and hold soft peaks. Then, dust the grapes lightly in granulated sugar until they are fully coated. Dip the sugared grapes in the egg whites, coating completely. Finally, roll the egg-dipped grapes in more granulated sugar until thoroughly coated.

Lay the candied grapes on a parchment lined baking sheet. Allow them to sit uncovered at room temperature for 12-24 hours until dry and hardened. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. For added flavors, try rolling in cinnamon-sugar, chopped nuts or candied rose petals before the final sugaring.

Where to Buy Ready-Made Candied Grapes

If making candied grapes at home sounds too time consuming, you can typically find them ready-made at the following retailers:

• Specialty candy shops or chocolatiers
• Farmers markets from vendors selling jams, nuts or other specialty foods
• Middle Eastern food markets
• Some upscale grocery stores, often seasonal around the holidays
• Online retailers specializing in specialty confections, gift baskets or nostalgic candies

You may be able to find them year-round from candy-makers, but they tend to be more widely available during the winter holiday season. Prices can range from $5-$15 for an 8 ounce bag. Be sure to look for grapes coated in real sugar, not wax or other imitation coatings. Locally made varieties sold at markets will offer the freshest quality and taste.

Candied Grape Inspirations from Around the World

Candying fresh grapes in sugar has long been a traditional technique around the globe. Here are some of the many international candied grape varieties you may come across:

• Mukhwas - Colorful, seeded candied grapes popular as an after-meal digestif in India.
• Uzum Narsharab - "Grape syrup" in Turkish cuisine, made by candying small sour grapes in heavy sugar syrup.
• Vin Cotto - An Italian condiment of cooked, concentrated grape must with a rich, candied flavor.
• Boksoondoga - Korean traditional sweets made with whole candied grapes seasoned with aromatic spices.

So whether you're seeking an authentic taste of a faraway place or just want a nostalgic treat to spice up snack time, candied grapes are sure to satisfy your cravings in the sweetest way possible.

Bringing the Sweet Taste of Candied Grapes Home

With their glistening, jewel-toned appearance and intense sweet-tart flavor, it's no wonder candied grapes have maintained popularity through the ages. Making your own at home allows you to control the quality and tailor the flavors. But seeking out ready-made varieties from specialty shops and markets lets you conveniently enjoy this vintage-inspired treat anytime. However you choose to savor them, candied grapes provide a burst of flavor sure to delight people of all ages.

FAQs

How long do homemade candied grapes last?

Homemade candied grapes will last 1-2 weeks stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep them away from moisture and heat for best preservation.

What are the best grapes to use for candying?

Seedless table grape varieties like Thompson and Flame grapes work well for candying. Avoid overly juicy or thick-skinned grapes. Smaller grapes like grapes are easiest to coat evenly.

Is there a shortcut for coating candied grapes?

Some recipes suggest using pasteurized egg whites in a carton to skip whipping fresh egg whites. You can also brush grapes with lightly beaten egg white using a pastry brush.

Can you use artificial sweeteners to candy grapes?

Yes, sugar substitutes like Splenda or stevia can be used to coat the grapes. However, the texture may be more crunchy than crystalline and crisp.

Why do the grapes stick together after candying?

Excess humidity can cause candied grapes to stick together clump. Try drying them longer initially. You can also gently separate stuck grapes using your fingers once dried.