Fun Facts!
What is Freeze Dried Candy?
Freeze-dried candy is a type of candy that has had the moisture removed from it through a process of freeze-drying. This process involves freezing the candy, then reducing the pressure in the chamber and heating it up, which causes the ice crystals to sublimate (go from solid to vapor) and the water molecules to evaporate. This leaves behind a lightweight, crispy, and dry version of the original candy. The freeze-drying process preserves the original flavor, color, and shape of the candy. The resulting freeze-dried candy can be used as a topping on desserts, ice creams or as a snack, they are also popular as astronaut food, and tend to be visually appealing and unique in their texture.
Freeze-dried candy typically retains the same flavor as the original candy, but it has a unique texture. It is light, crisp, and dry, with a crunchy and brittle consistency. Because the moisture is removed from the candy, it can be less sweet and less sticky than the original version. Some people describe the taste as similar to the original candy, but with a slightly different texture, almost like eating a chip. The texture and taste of freeze-dried candy can vary depending on the type of candy and the specific recipe used to make it. Some freeze-dried cand can be very sweet and others can be less sweet.
The nutritional values of candy may change slightly after they have been freeze-dried. The freeze-drying process removes the moisture from the candy, which can affect the weight and volume of the candy. This means that a serving size of freeze-dried candy may be smaller than a serving size of the original candy.
The calorie, carbohydrate, and sugar content of freeze-dried candy will be similar to that of the original candy, but the calorie density may be slightly higher, due to the loss of water. The freeze-drying process does not add or remove any nutritional value to the candy.
It is worth noting that candy, in general, is not considered a healthy food and should be consumed in moderation, regardless if it is freeze-dried or not. Candy is high in sugar and calories, and it is not a good source of essential nutrients.
How to Freeze Dry Candy?
Preparation
Select the candy you'd like to freeze dry. Ideally, choose candies with a higher moisture content, such as gummy bears, fruit jellies, or marshmallows. Avoid candies with low water content, like hard candies or toffees, as they won't freeze dry properly.
Freezing
Place the candy on trays or racks in a single layer, ensuring they aren't touching each other. This allows for even freezing and drying. Put the trays into a commercial or home-use freeze dryer or a deep freezer that reaches temperatures of -40°F (-40°C) or lower. Allow the candy to freeze for several hours or overnight.
Primary Drying (Sublimation)
Once the candy is frozen, place it in the freeze dryer chamber. The freeze dryer reduces the pressure inside the chamber and heats the shelves that the candy is on. This encourages the frozen water in the candy to sublimate, turning it from a solid (ice) directly into a gas (water vapor) without passing through the liquid phase.
This primary drying phase can take anywhere from 12-48 hours, depending on the type and size of the candy. Monitor the progress of the drying by checking the weight loss of the candy, as this indicates the amount of water removed.
Secondary Drying (Desorption)
After most of the water has been removed through sublimation, the freeze dryer will enter the secondary drying phase. During this phase, the temperature inside the chamber is increased to remove any remaining bound water molecules. This ensures that the candy is thoroughly dried, extending its shelf life.
Storage
Store the freeze-dried candy in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The candy can be stored for several months or even years, depending on the packaging and storage conditions.
Enjoy your freeze-dried candy as a lightweight, crunchy, and unique snack!