Dry freezing, also known as freeze-drying, is a process where food is frozen and then slowly dehydrated in a vacuum. This method removes moisture while preserving the shape, texture, and flavor of the food. Freeze-dried candy has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people enjoying the unique texture and longer shelf life it provides. If you’re interested in dry-freezing candy at home, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
What is Freeze-Drying?
Freeze-drying is a process that removes moisture from food while preserving its structure and nutrients. The food is first frozen, and then a vacuum is created around it, which causes the frozen water to turn directly into vapor without passing through the liquid state. This is known as sublimation. The result is a light, crispy texture and a product that can be stored for much longer than fresh food or candy.
Why Freeze-Dry Candy?
Freeze-drying candy can give it a unique texture and extend its shelf life. The process causes the candy to become airy, crunchy, and less sticky, creating an entirely new experience for candy lovers. Freeze-dried candy also has the advantage of lasting longer without spoiling, making it perfect for long-term storage or fun treats for events. Some popular freeze-dried candies include gummy bears, marshmallows, and even chocolate.
Steps to Dry Freeze Candy
1. Choose the Right Candy
Not all candy is suitable for freeze-drying. Some candies, like hard candies or those with a very high sugar content, freeze-dry very well. Gummies, marshmallows, and chocolate-covered treats also do well with freeze-drying. Avoid candies that are too sticky or those with high moisture content, like caramel, as they may not freeze-dry properly.
2. Get a Freeze-Dryer
To dry-freeze candy at home, you’ll need a freeze-dryer. There are several commercial-grade models available for home use. These devices are designed specifically for the freeze-drying process and can be quite an investment. Brands like Harvest Right offer small home-use freeze-dryers that are widely popular.
If you do not own a freeze-dryer, you can also look into freeze-drying services, where you send your candy to be processed. However, owning a machine allows for greater flexibility and convenience.
3. Prepare the Candy
Before you begin the freeze-drying process, make sure to prepare the candy. If you’re working with gummy candies, place them on a tray in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. For chocolate-covered candies, it’s best to lay them flat on the tray to prevent the coating from being disturbed. If the candy is sticky or gooey, you may want to use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
4. Place Candy in the Freeze-Dryer
Once the candy is prepared, place it in the freeze-dryer. Make sure to arrange the candies evenly on the trays. Do not overcrowd the trays to ensure that the freeze-dryer can operate effectively. The candy should be spread out enough for air to circulate around each piece.
5. Start the Freeze-Drying Process
Start the freeze-dryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The process can take anywhere from 20 to 48 hours depending on the type of candy, the size of the batch, and the specific freeze-dryer model. The machine will freeze the candy, then create a vacuum and gently heat the candy to begin the sublimation process. This step removes the moisture from the candy without melting it.
6. Check the Candy
Once the process is complete, check the candy for any remaining moisture. If the candy feels light, crispy, and dry to the touch, it’s ready to be stored. If it still feels a bit moist or sticky, it may need more time in the freeze-dryer.
7. Store the Freeze-Dried Candy
After the candy is fully freeze-dried, store it in an airtight container. Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers are a popular choice for long-term storage, as they help preserve the candy’s freshness. You can also store the candy in glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags. Make sure to keep the candy in a cool, dry place to maintain its quality.
Tips for Freeze-Drying Candy
- Test Small Batches: If you’re new to freeze-drying, it’s a good idea to test small batches of candy before committing to larger quantities. This helps you understand how your freeze-dryer works and ensures the candy turns out just as you like.
- Avoid Overloading the Freeze-Dryer: Overloading the freeze-dryer can cause uneven drying and may result in some candy not being properly freeze-dried.
- Store Properly: Freeze-dried candy is extremely sensitive to moisture, so ensure it is stored in airtight containers. When exposed to air, the candy will begin to reabsorb moisture, which can affect its texture and shelf life.
- Try Different Candies: Some candies react better to freeze-drying than others. Experiment with different types of candy, such as jelly beans, lollipops, and fruit-flavored gummies, to discover what works best.
Conclusion
Freeze-drying candy is a fun and effective way to give your favorite treats a new, crunchy texture and increase their shelf life. While it requires an investment in a freeze-dryer, the results are well worth it for candy enthusiasts. Follow the steps outlined above, and you’ll soon be enjoying a variety of freeze-dried candy at home. Whether you’re making snacks for yourself, preparing for an event, or simply experimenting with new textures, freeze-dried candy is a delicious and innovative treat!