A Vegan, Jewel-Like Treat with a Crisp Shell and Chewy Center
Kohakutou, which means “amber sugar” in Japanese, is a beautiful traditional candy that resembles precious crystals or gemstones. Though visually stunning, these candies are surprisingly simple to make with just a few ingredients. The magic lies in the drying process—starting as a soft jelly and transforming into a chewy, gem-like candy with a delicate outer shell over several days.
This treat is naturally vegan, highly customizable in both flavor and color, and makes a unique gift or elegant sweet for special occasions.
What Are Crystal Gummies?
Kohakutou are agar-based candies that form a gelatinous texture once set, then slowly dry to create a crisp outer shell. They are most commonly flavored with fruit juices, teas, or floral extracts and tinted with natural or artificial coloring to mimic the shimmer of crystals.
Tools You’ll Need
To get started, gather these basic kitchen tools:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking pan or silicone candy molds
- Parchment paper
- Tray or drying rack
- Sharp knife or cookie cutters
Optional: gloves or a lightly oiled surface for cutting
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons agar agar powder (do not substitute with gelatin)
- 2½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 to 4 teaspoons flavoring (such as pandan juice, fruit puree, tea, or flavored extracts)
- Natural food coloring (optional)
- Neutral oil (for greasing molds or pans)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bloom the Agar
In a medium saucepan, add the water and sprinkle in the agar agar powder. Stir quickly to incorporate, then let sit for 5 minutes to allow the agar to bloom.
Step 2: Heat the Mixture
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until the agar is fully dissolved and the liquid is clear.
Step 3: Add Sugar and Flavorings
Add the sugar to the mixture and stir until it’s fully dissolved—about 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat. At this point, mix in your desired flavorings and food coloring if using. For multi-colored batches, divide the mixture into smaller bowls before adding color.
Step 4: Pour and Set
Lightly grease your baking pan or molds with neutral oil, or line with parchment paper. Pour the liquid into the molds or pan and let it cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until fully set.
Step 5: Cut into Crystals
Once the jelly is firm, gently remove it from the pan or molds. Use a sharp knife (lightly oiled if needed) or cookie cutters to slice it into gem-like shapes—such as cubes, diamonds, or irregular crystal pieces.
Step 6: Dry the Gummies
Place the candy pieces on a parchment-lined tray, leaving space between each piece to allow air circulation. Let them dry uncovered at room temperature for 3 to 7 days, flipping them once or twice during the drying process to ensure even drying. The outside will harden while the inside remains chewy.
Helpful Tips for Success
- Humidity Matters: Drying is faster and more effective in dry environments. In humid climates, extend drying time or use a fan to help airflow.
- Stick Prevention: Use gloves or lightly oil your knife to avoid sticking while cutting.
- Flavor Variety: You can experiment with matcha, floral extracts like lavender or rose, citrus juices, or even herbal teas.
- Color Layering: For a marbled or layered effect, pour colored mixtures in stages or swirl them gently before setting.
Storage and Shelf Life
Once fully dried, store your crystal gummies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep for 2 to 3 weeks, depending on humidity.
Creative Ways to Use and Serve Crystal Gummies
Once your kohakutou candies have dried and developed their signature crisp shell, it’s time to enjoy them—not just as standalone treats, but as beautiful additions to other desserts and presentations. Here are a few creative ideas to make the most of your homemade crystal gummies:
1. Party Favors and Edible Gifts
Package a mix of jewel-toned gummies in small cellophane bags, clear jars, or gift boxes. Add a handwritten label or ribbon for an elegant touch. These candies are especially popular as wedding favors, birthday treats, or holiday gifts.
2. Dessert Garnishes
Top cakes, cupcakes, and frosted cookies with a few glittering pieces of kohakutou. Their shimmer and texture add visual drama and a burst of sweetness, making them perfect for themed events like princess parties or tea gatherings.
3. Tea and Mocktail Pairings
Serve crystal gummies alongside floral or fruity teas, or as a delicate nibble with sparkling water or mocktails. Their light, clean flavors pair well with mild drinks and can elevate a tea table or afternoon snack.
4. Edible Centerpieces
Arrange a variety of colors and cuts on a platter or mirrored tray to create a striking edible display for your table. For special occasions, you can build a “gem bowl” centerpiece for guests to admire and nibble from throughout the event.
5. Children’s Activities and Science Projects
Crystal gummies make a fun and safe edible project for kids. The transformation from jelly to crystal-like candy offers a great opportunity to teach about evaporation, texture changes, and creative presentation—especially when paired with vibrant, natural coloring.
Final Thoughts: Edible Gems with Endless Possibilities
Kohakutou is a delightful fusion of artistry and tradition. With its crystalline appearance and customizable flavors, it’s more than a candy—it’s an edible craft project that’s fun to make and even more fun to share.
Whether you’re making them for a themed party, a homemade gift box, or simply to satisfy your own curiosity, crystal gummies are sure to impress. Try different flavor and color combinations, and enjoy creating these stunning, jewel-like treats from scratch.
Crystal Gummies (Japanese Kohakutou Candy)
Equipment
- – Medium saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- – Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking pan or silicone molds
- Knife or cookie cutters
- – Parchment paper
- Tray or drying rack
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp agar agar powder
- 2½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 –4 tsp flavoring pandan juice, fruit purée, tea, or extracts
- Natural coloring optional
- Neutral oil for greasing pan
Instructions
- Pour 2 cups of water into a saucepan, sprinkle in the agar agar powder, stir quickly, and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
- Set the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring often. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until the agar fully dissolves and the mixture looks clear.
- Add the sugar, stir until fully dissolved (about 1–2 minutes), then remove from heat. Add your choice of flavorings and natural coloring if desired.
- Lightly grease a baking pan or molds with neutral oil, or line with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan or molds and let it cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours.
- Once fully set, remove the jelly and cut into crystals, diamonds, or cubes using a sharp knife or cookie cutters.
- Arrange the pieces on parchment-lined trays without touching, and air-dry uncovered at room temperature for 3–7 days, flipping them halfway through for even drying.