Pulled sugar, also known as pulled sugar paste or sugar glass, has long been a staple of the pastry world. This delicate, yet incredibly versatile material can be molded into a wide range of shapes and designs, from intricate flowers to elegant ribbons. When it comes to creating visually stunning desserts, there’s no denying the impact that a well-crafted piece of pulled sugar can have.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 decadent pulled sugar recipes that every pastry chef should master. From classic vanilla-infused ribbons to bold flavors like blood orange and bourbon caramel, these recipes will push your skills to the next level and leave your customers in awe of your creations.
Vanilla-Infused Pulled Sugar Ribbons
Create delicate, flavorful sugar ribbons infused with the warmth of vanilla. Perfect for decorating cakes, cookies, or using as a decorative garnish for your favorite desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly, then pour onto a parchment-lined surface or silicone mat.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and set completely, which may take around 30-40 minutes, depending on temperature and humidity.
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the sugar into desired shapes.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10 minutes (cooking time) + 30-40 minutes (cooling time)
Spiced Cinnamon Pulled Sugar Twists
Experience the warmth of the holiday season with these tender and flavorful treats. These twisted sugar confections are infused with the comforting aromas of cinnamon and spices, perfect for gifting or snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
4. Pour mixture onto a lightly greased surface or parchment paper.
5. Let cool slightly, then use hands or a spatula to pull and twist the sugar mixture into desired shapes.
6. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to tint.
7. Allow twists to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Citrus Zest Pulled Sugar Flowers
Elevate your baking creations with these delicate, citrus-infused sugar flowers that add a touch of elegance to any dessert. This recipe is perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon citrus zest (lemon or orange)
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Cook until the sugar dissolves, then increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the syrup reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in citrus zest.
5. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, until it reaches 275°F.
6. Pour onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper.
7. Use a spatula or your fingers to shape into flower-like forms.
8. Allow to cool and harden completely before using.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Pulled Sugar Swans
Transform simple sugar into stunning swan-shaped treats with this caramelized pulled sugar recipe. Perfect for decorating cakes, cookies, or using as a sweet garnish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon water
– Food coloring (optional)
– Flavorings like vanilla or almond extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the sugar on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with the water.
3. Cook in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the sugar turns golden brown and starts to caramelize.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Use a spatula or offset spatula to pull and stretch the caramelized sugar into long, thin strands.
6. Shape the pulled sugar into swan silhouettes using your hands or a cookie cutter.
7. Allow the sugar swans to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Earl Grey Tea-Infused Pulled Sugar Leaves
Add a touch of elegance to your desserts with these delicate sugar leaves infused with the subtle flavors of Earl Grey tea. Perfect for garnishing cakes, cookies, and other sweet treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon Earl Grey tea leaves (dried or loose-leaf)
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring mixture to 300°F, or the hard-ball stage, using a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes with Earl Grey tea leaves.
4. Strain tea leaves from syrup and discard.
5. Pour syrup onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper.
6. Allow to cool and set (about 30 minutes).
7. Once set, use a spatula or offset spatula to pull and stretch sugar into thin sheets, resembling leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Raspberry-Rose Pulled Sugar Garnishes
Add a touch of sophistication to your desserts with these delicate Raspberry-Rose Pulled Sugar Garnishes. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or ice cream, these tiny decorations are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon raspberry puree
– 1/4 teaspoon rosewater
– Fresh raspberries and edible flowers (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the syrup reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in raspberry puree and rosewater.
4. Allow the syrup to cool slightly, until it reaches 275°F. This is when you can start pulling the sugar.
5. Pour the syrup onto a parchment-lined surface and let cool and set completely.
6. Once set, use your fingers or a tool to pull and stretch the sugar into thin strands.
7. Shape into desired forms (e.g., curls, leaves) and garnish with fresh raspberries and edible flowers if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Golden Honey Pulled Sugar Spheres
Golden Honey Pulled Sugar Spheres Recipe
Create delicate, golden honey-infused pulled sugar spheres that are perfect as a garnish or topping for your favorite desserts. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these sweet treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the sugar, water, and honey in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and carefully add the corn syrup. The mixture will bubble up and steam vigorously.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, until it reaches 275°F. This is crucial for achieving the pulled sugar texture.
5. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper. Let it cool and set completely.
6. Once set, use your hands or a small cookie scoop to shape the mixture into spheres.
Cooking Time: About 15 minutes from start to finish.
Chocolate-Marbled Pulled Sugar Curls
Create stunning and delicious pulled sugar curls with a decadent chocolate twist. Perfect as a dessert or decoration for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 cup melted dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Knead mixture until it forms a smooth, pliable dough.
5. Divide dough into 4-6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
6. Dip one end of each rope into melted chocolate, leaving a small portion at the top uncoated.
7. Use a spatula or fork to create curls and swirls on the chocolate-coated ends.
8. Place curled sugar on parchment-lined surface to set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tips: To add color, mix a few drops of food coloring into the sugar mixture before cooking. Allow the curls to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Espresso-Infused Pulled Sugar Stalks
Elevate your sugar work game with these exquisite, espresso-infused pulled sugar stalks. Perfect for adding a sophisticated touch to any dessert or coffee bar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons espresso powder
– Food coloring (optional)
– Gum tragacanth
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan, whisking until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in espresso powder until well combined.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, until it reaches 115°F (46°C).
5. Whip the mixture with an electric mixer or a whisk until it becomes thick and syrupy, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Knead the pulled sugar on a surface dusted with gum tragacanth until it becomes pliable and easy to work with.
7. Shape into stalks, if desired, using a piping bag or a spatula.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lavender-Pistachio Pulled Sugar Ribbons
Add a touch of elegance and whimsy to your dessert table with these intricately flavored pulled sugar ribbons. The subtle sweetness of lavender and the crunch of pistachios create a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Confectioner’s glaze (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Place the pan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Stir in dried lavender buds and chopped pistachios. Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Use a spatula or spoon to pull and stretch the sugar mixture into long, thin ribbons. You can shape them as desired (e.g., curls, spirals).
6. If desired, dust with confectioner’s glaze before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Blood Orange Pulled Sugar Geodes
Elevate your confectionery game with these stunning Blood Orange Pulled Sugar Geodes, perfect for special occasions or as a unique gift. This recipe combines the sweetness of pulled sugar with the vibrant color and flavor of blood oranges.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon corn syrup
– Food coloring (red or orange)
– Blood orange juice (about 2 tablespoons)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Add red or orange food coloring to achieve the desired shade of blood orange.
4. Stir in blood orange juice.
5. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper. Allow it to cool and set completely (about 30 minutes).
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to shape into geodes or desired shapes.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peppermint-Striped Pulled Sugar Sculptures
Create stunning sugar sculptures with a refreshing twist using peppermint extract and stripes of color. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Water, as needed
– Food coloring (white and pink)
– Confectioners’ glaze (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar and peppermint extract in a small saucepan.
2. Add a small amount of water to create a syrupy consistency. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Knead the mixture with your hands until it forms a pliable dough.
5. Divide the dough into 2-3 equal portions. Add a few drops of pink food coloring to one portion and mix well.
6. Roll out each portion into a thin sheet, about 1/16 inch thick.
7. Place a white sheet on top of a pink sheet, aligning edges carefully.
8. Repeat the layering process until you reach the desired thickness.
9. Use confectioners’ glaze to attach the ends of the rolled sugar, if needed.
10. Allow the sculpture to set at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Matcha-Glazed Pulled Sugar Butterflies
Transform traditional pulled sugar into a vibrant green treat with the essence of matcha. These delicate butterflies are perfect for decorating cakes, cookies, or serving as a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pulled sugar (white granulated sugar)
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the pulled sugar, matcha powder, and 1 tablespoon of water. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Increase the heat to medium and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage).
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add the corn syrup and mix until well combined.
5. Use a spoon or piping bag to shape the mixture into butterfly shapes.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Brown Butter Pulled Sugar Feathers
A delicate and elegant treat that combines the richness of brown butter with the sweetness of pulled sugar feathers. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique dessert to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
– Food coloring (optional)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and slowly pour in the sugar, corn syrup, and any desired food coloring (if using). The mixture will bubble and steam; be cautious.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and set completely (about 30 minutes).
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut out desired shapes.
7. Dust with confectioner’s sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes, including cooling time.
Coconut-Lime Pulled Sugar Palm Leaves
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the creamy richness of coconut with the bright zing of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the coconut milk and lime juice to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bourbon-Caramel Pulled Sugar Knots
These rich, chewy sugar knots are infused with the deep flavor of bourbon and caramel, perfect for a special treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cream, and butter. Place over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, bourbon whiskey, and sea salt.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and let cool slightly, about 10 minutes.
6. Use your hands or a spatula to shape mixture into small knots.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until caramel is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Passionfruit-Pulled Sugar Coral Shards
Create a show-stopping dessert with these Passionfruit-Pulled Sugar Coral Shards, perfect for special occasions or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup passionfruit puree
– 1 tablespoon corn syrup
– Food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, and passionfruit puree. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Add corn syrup and stir until dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper. Let set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
5. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut into desired shapes (e.g., coral-like shards).
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + cooling time
Toasted Almond Pulled Sugar Lace
Toasted Almond Pulled Sugar Lace Recipe
Summary: Create a delicate, lace-like confectionery treat infused with the nutty flavor of toasted almonds and the sweetness of pulled sugar. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a unique dessert topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup toasted almonds, finely chopped
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds evenly across the sugar mixture.
6. Allow to cool and set completely (about 30 minutes).
7. Use a spatula or offset spatula to gently pull the sugar into thin strands, creating a lace-like texture.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Ginger-Spiced Pulled Sugar Dragons
Transform your sugar-coated treats into mythical creatures with this whimsical recipe! These Ginger-Spiced Pulled Sugar Dragons are perfect for a magical dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pulled sugar (see note)
– 2 tablespoons ginger syrup
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Edible gold dust or yellow food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the ginger syrup, honey, and ground ginger.
2. Add the mixture to the pulled sugar and stir until well combined.
3. Use your hands or a spatula to shape the sugar mixture into dragon shapes.
4. If desired, add edible gold dust or yellow food coloring to give the dragons a golden glow.
5. Allow the dragons to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as these treats don’t require baking!
Black Sesame Pulled Sugar Blossoms
Create a stunning dessert with these delicate, pull-apart sugar blossoms infused with the nutty flavor of black sesame seeds. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 2 tbsp black sesame seeds
– Food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in black sesame seeds. Let cool slightly.
4. Knead the mixture with your hands until it forms a sticky dough.
5. Roll out the dough into thin sheets, about 1/16 inch (1.5mm) thick.
6. Cut into flower shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pastry game with these 20 decadent pulled sugar recipes every chef should master! From Vanilla-Infused Pulled Sugar Ribbons to Ginger-Spiced Pulled Sugar Dragons, this collection features an array of stunning and edible creations. Discover how to make Caramelized Pulled Sugar Swans, Raspberry-Rose Pulled Sugar Garnishes, and Espresso-Infused Pulled Sugar Stalks, among many others. Each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the versatility and beauty of pulled sugar artistry. Whether you’re a professional pastry chef or a home baker looking to impress, this article has something for everyone.
