In the world of street foods, few treats are as eye-catching and satisfying as tanghulu. Originating from northern China, tanghulu is a traditional snack made by skewering fresh fruits and dipping them into hot sugar syrup, which hardens into a glossy, crunchy shell. It’s simple, beautiful, and utterly delicious.
A Bite of History
Tanghulu dates back to the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD). Legend tells of an emperor’s concubine who was healed from an illness by eating hawthorn fruits covered in sugar syrup. What started as a remedy quickly became a beloved treat among the people. Originally made with Chinese hawthorn berries — small, tart fruits — tanghulu grew in popularity across China’s bustling markets and festivals.
How Tanghulu is Made
Making tanghulu is a beautiful balance between art and science. First, fruits like strawberries, grapes, or kiwis are carefully washed and dried. Then, they are pierced onto bamboo skewers. Meanwhile, sugar is melted with water and heated until it reaches the “hard crack” stage (about 300°F/150°C). Each skewer is swiftly dipped into the syrup and cooled, forming a glassy, candy-like coating.
Modern versions often use a variety of fruits, and some even add sesame seeds, nuts, or edible glitter to make them extra special.
The Global Tanghulu Craze
In recent years, tanghulu has exploded in popularity worldwide, thanks to viral videos on TikTok and Instagram. The satisfying crack when biting into the sugary shell, combined with the juicy fruit inside, makes for an irresistible sensory experience. Street vendors from New York to Seoul now sell their own versions, sometimes using tropical fruits like pineapple and mango.
However, it’s important to be careful when making tanghulu at home — boiling sugar syrup can cause serious burns if mishandled.
Why People Love Tanghulu
Tanghulu is more than just a pretty snack. It offers a perfect contrast of textures and flavors: the brittle sweetness of the candy shell with the tart, juicy explosion of fruit inside. It’s nostalgic for many Chinese people, while also feeling new and exciting to those trying it for the first time.
At its core, tanghulu is a reminder that sometimes, the simplest treats can bring the most joy.
