Jolly Rancher Candy Grapes

Candy grapes are sweet and sour candy-coated grapes, dipped in melted jolly ranchers then more crushed candy for a delightful crunch. This quick and easy 2-ingredient treat has gone viral because it’s tasty, colorful, and perfect for holidays and special occasions, like Easter and birthday parties.

Want more candy desserts? Try my super moist Heath Bar Cake, this Candy Loaded Milkshakes, and Candy Corn Pudding Pops next.

Sweet, sour, and juicy, candied grapes are a unique snack that is so addicting! With a tart, crunchy candy coating, and a juicy center, this treat will have you reaching for them by the handful!

The kids love when I make these and luckily they are a breeze to prepare. With two methods to choose from, it does not get easier (or tastier) than this!

Why You will This Candy Grapes Recipe

Easy to Make! No food coloring or boiling is necessary. With just 2 ingredients and 10 minutes, you can have an irresistible snack that kids and adults will enjoy.

A Fun Family Activity! Let the kids help assemble the jolly rancher candied grapes (use the second method that uses a fruit wrap instead of melted candy).

Ideal for Special Occasions! These sweet treats are perfect for Easter or a birthday party favor.

Fat-Free Snack! This is a low-calorie treat that you can indulge in.

What are Candy Grapes

Candy grapes (also known as candied grapes, galaxy grapes, and crack grapes) are fresh grapes rolled or dipped into a flavored sugar mixture. Recipes use everything from Jello and Kool-Aid to Sour Patch Kids and Jolly Ranchers.

The variety most commonly found at the grocery store is cotton candy grapes, a genetically modified fruit that tastes like cotton candy.

Candy Grapes Ingredients:

• Green grapes: You can use red grapes but I prefer green seedless grapes because they are naturally sweeter. Also, the color of red grapes may bleed into the melted candy mixture. Whichever you choose, make sure they are ripe and firm.
• Jolly Ranchers: You will need at least 30 pieces total. If you want to use a variety, be sure to get multiple candy flavors. Green apple is my personal favorite.

Alternative ingredients & method:

• Fruit by the foot fruit snacks: This is used for the candy shell. It is also sticky so it adheres to the grape and the crushed jolly ranchers.
• Jolly ranchers: Crushed.

How to Make Candy Grapes:

Prepare Grapes

Place the clean and dried green grapes flat on a parchment paper lined baking sheet, and freeze for at least 30 minutes.

Remove the grapes from the freezer. Stick a skewer or a toothpick into the end of each grape. 

Blend Jolly Ranchers

Add at least 10-15 Jolly Ranchers into a high speed blender and blend them until a candy powder is formed. Pour the crushed candy into a shallow dish or bowl.

Microwave Select Jolly Ranchers

Then place your desired color of jolly ranchers into a microwave safe bowl, and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds, or until candy is melted. 

Now you have to move quickly! The melted candy hardens quickly! 

Dip the Grapes in the Melted Mixture

Carefully remove the melted candy from the microwave. Dip the grapes one at a time into the candy until it is fully coated.

Roll the Grapes in Crushed Jolly Ranchers

Now roll the candied grape around in the crushed jolly ranchers, in place it on a clean piece of parchment paper to harden.

Repeat these steps until all of the candy grapes are made. 

Eat them right away, or store them in a Ziploc bag or container in the freezer. 

Pro-tip: If the melted jolly ranchers begin to get too hard, just place the bowl back in the microwave for 10 seconds to re-melt them. 

Alternative method:

Wrap each grape with a piece of fruit by the foot. Then roll the wrapped grape around in the crushed jolly ranchers until they are fully coated.

Alternatives and Variations:

• You can use any hard candy you would like for this recipe so get creative! Rock candy and pop rocks are great options. Nerds are also a great sweet addition to the candied grapes.
• Prefer something less crunchy? Use Kool-Aid or Jello flavors instead. Dip the prepped grapes in water then into a bowl of Kool-Aid or jello powder.

Pro-Tips:

• Remember to freeze the grapes for at least 30 minutes before because frozen grapes are easier to adhere to.
• Be careful with the melted candy since it is very hot. Do not skip the skewers or toothpicks because you cannot dip the grapes in the mixture with your bare fingers.
• Once the jolly ranchers are melted, you have to work fast before it begins to cool and harden.
• You want the grapes fully coated with a thin layer of melted candy so make sure it is not too thick. Otherwise, they may be difficult to eat.

Storing:

Store leftover candy grapes in a paper towel-lined airtight container. Add another paper towel on top of the grapes in order to absorb any excess moisture. You want the grapes to be dry so they do not clump together.

Consume refrigerated candy grapes within 4 days. Frozen grapes last up to 2 weeks. Just let them sit out for a few minutes before you try to eat them.

FAQ:

When are grapes in season?

Grapes are in season between spring and summer.

How do you make candy grapes?

There are many ways to make these delicious treats. This candy grapes recipe requires freezing grapes, dipping them in melted jolly ranchers, then rolling them in a crushed mixture of additional jolly ranchers.

Are candy grapes healthy?

Although they are low in calories, candy grapes have quite a bit of sugar. Just like any other snack or dessert, they should be enjoyed in moderation.

They are a delicious snack for kids to help you make and to enjoy!

More Dessert Recipes to Try

• Churro Dessert Tacos with Strawberries and Cream
• Easy Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
• Grandma’s Sweet Potato Pie Recipe
• Apple Glazed Pull-Apart Bread
• Oreo Chocolate Chip Brookies

Be sure to tag me on Instagram or Facebook when you make this recipe! I would love to see your creation, and give you a shoutout!