Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy

Name: Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 12 grams agar-agar; 14 ounces cool water; 24 ounces sugar; 1/4 teaspoon candy flavoring; 3 drops liquid food coloring (optional)

Published: June 23, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious gummies in no time.
Customizable Flavors: You can choose your favorite candy flavoring to create a unique taste experience.
Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors and crystal shapes make these gummies an eye-catching treat at any gathering.
Long-Lasting Treat: Once dried, these gummies can last for days, making them perfect for parties or snacks throughout the week.
Healthy Alternative: Made with agar-agar, this recipe offers a gelatin-free option that’s suitable for many diets.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy, you’ll need some essential tools that will ensure your process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Medium-sized saucepan
Heatproof glass dish
Spatula
Toothpick
Sharp knife
Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

Medium-sized saucepan: Ideal for mixing ingredients evenly without spilling.
Heatproof glass dish: Ensures that your candy mixture cools properly and prevents sticking with a light oil coating.
Spatula: Useful for stirring the mixture thoroughly to avoid clumps in your candy.
Sharp knife: Necessary for cutting the set candy into beautiful crystal shapes.

Ingredients

To make Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy, gather these ingredients:

For the Base Mixture

12 grams agar agar (telephone brand)
14 ounces cool water
24 ounces sugar

For Flavoring and Coloring

1/4 teaspoon candy flavoring
1/8 teaspoon citric acid (optional – adds a tart flavor)
3 drops liquid food coloring (I used Americolor airbrush color)

How to Make Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy

Step 1: Prepare the Agar-Agar Mixture

Place cool water into a medium-sized saucepan.
Sprinkle agar agar powder over the water and let it absorb for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Heat the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
Cook for 2-3 minutes while stirring constantly with a spatula until fully dissolved.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Flavorings

Sprinkle in your sugar gradually while continuing to stir.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes until sugar is dissolved completely.
Remove from heat and add in your chosen candy flavoring and citric acid if desired.

Step 4: Pour and Color

Pour the mixture into a heatproof glass dish that has been lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Add a few drops of liquid food coloring on top. Swirl gently with a toothpick to create patterns or blend fully.

Step 5: Set the Candy

Place the container into the fridge for 2-3 hours until set completely.

Step 6: Cut into Shapes

Once set, remove the gummy from the container carefully.
Use a sharp knife to cut into crystal shapes as desired.

Step 7: Dry Out

Place the crystal gummies onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
Let them dry at room temperature for 2-3 days until they develop a hard crust on the outside.

Enjoy your homemade Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy as an exciting treat or gift!

How to Serve Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy

Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it creatively can enhance the experience, making it even more enjoyable for guests or as a personal snack.

Individual Treats

Place each crystal gummy in small paper cups for easy handling and a fun presentation.

Party Platters

Arrange assorted colors of Kohakutou on a large platter, adding a pop of color to your dessert table.

Gift Packaging

Package the gummies in decorative jars or bags tied with ribbons for a charming homemade gift.

Dessert Toppings

Use crushed Kohakutou as a topping on ice cream or yogurt for added texture and flavor.

Flavor Pairings

Serve alongside fresh fruits like strawberries or mangoes to complement the sweetness of the candy.

How to Perfect Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy

Creating the perfect Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Use quality agar agar – Choosing a high-grade agar agar will ensure better gelling and texture.
Control temperature carefully – Avoid boiling the mixture too rapidly; gentle simmering helps maintain clarity and chewiness.
Experiment with flavors – Don’t hesitate to try different candy flavorings to find your favorite combinations.
Adjust sweetness – Feel free to modify sugar levels based on your taste preference; this can balance out tart flavorings.
Let it dry completely – Allowing the gummies to dry fully creates that desired crunchy crust on the outside.
Store properly – Keep the gummies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy

Pairing side dishes with Kohakutou can enhance its enjoyment during gatherings or meals. Here are some delightful suggestions:

Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances the sweetness of the candy.
Green Tea – The subtle bitterness of green tea complements the sweetness, making for a classic Japanese pairing.
Matcha Cake – This soft, earthy-flavored cake pairs beautifully with fruity gummy textures.
Mochi Ice Cream – Chewy mochi filled with ice cream adds another layer of texture and flavor contrast.
Sesame Cookies – Crunchy sesame cookies offer nuttiness that balances the chewy sweetness of Kohakutou.
Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and fruits creates a light yet satisfying dish alongside candies.
Japanese Cheesecake – Light and fluffy, it contrasts nicely against the chewy gummy candy for a delightful dessert duo.
Chilled Maccha Latte – The creamy matcha latte adds richness that pairs well with the sweet gummy treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy can be fun, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for. Here are a few tips to ensure your candy turns out perfectly.

Boldly measure your ingredients: Using incorrect measurements can lead to a gummy that doesn’t set properly. Always use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
Avoid rushing the simmering process: Not allowing the agar agar to fully dissolve can result in a grainy texture. Make sure to simmer until it is completely clear.
Don’t skip the cooling step: Pouring the mixture into the dish too soon can cause it to lose shape. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring.
Be patient with drying time: Cutting your gummies too early can prevent the outer crust from forming. Let them dry at room temperature for a full 2-3 days.
Overdo food coloring: Too much food coloring can overpower the flavor. Start with just a few drops and adjust as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to two weeks for optimal freshness.

Freezing Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy

Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer bag.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months, but texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy

Oven: Preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 200°F). Place gummies on a baking sheet until slightly warm, ensuring not to melt them.
Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts of 5-10 seconds. Check frequently as they can become too soft quickly.
Stovetop: Use a double boiler method, keeping the heat low and stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy that might help you get started.

What is Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy?

Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy is a Japanese treat made with agar agar, resulting in a chewy texture and beautiful crystal shapes.

How do I customize the flavors of my Kohakutou?

You can experiment with different candy flavorings or add fruit juices for unique tastes. Just ensure they are compatible with agar agar.

Can I use other types of sweeteners?

Yes, alternatives like honey or agave syrup can be used instead of regular sugar, but they may affect the final texture and sweetness level.

How long does it take to set?

Kohakutou typically takes around 2-3 hours in the fridge to set properly before cutting into shapes.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! The recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses plant-based agar agar instead of gelatin.

Final Thoughts

Kohakutou Crystal Gummy Candy is an exciting and versatile dessert that you can easily customize to fit your taste preferences. Whether you choose fruity flavors or vibrant colors, this candy is sure to impress friends and family alike. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy creating your delicious crystal treats!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card