CANDY FRUIT Meaning and
Definition
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Candy fruit refers to a type of confectionery that is made by coating or flavoring various fruits with syrup or sugar, resulting in a sweet and often brightly colored treat. It typically consists of real fruits, such as cherries, strawberries, or citrus slices, that have been preserved or candied to prolong their shelf life and enhance their sweetness.
To create candy fruit, the fruits are usually soaked in a sugar syrup or coated with sugar crystals, which can be flavored with natural extracts or artificial flavorings to impart different tastes. The syrup or sugar coating crystallizes around the fruit, providing it with a chewy or crispy texture depending on the intended outcome.
Candy fruits can be enjoyed as standalone snacks or used as decorative elements in desserts, cakes, pastries, or cocktails. They are popular during festive occasions, particularly during Christmas or Easter, where they are often used in holiday decorations, gift baskets, or as sweet treats for children.
The appeal of candy fruit lies in their vibrant appearance, pleasing texture, and intensified sweetness, which can offer a burst of flavor for those with a sweet tooth. However, it is important to consume them in moderation due to the high sugar content and the potential use of artificial additives. Additionally, certain varieties of candied fruit may contain additional preservatives to maintain their shelf life, so it is advisable to check the ingredients list if concerned about specific dietary restrictions or allergies.
Etymology of CANDY FRUIT
The word candy has its origin in the late 13th century, coming from the Old French word sucre candi meaning crystal candy or candied sugar. The term candied fruit, on the other hand, refers to fruit that has been preserved by boiling it in sugar syrup and then allowing it to dry. Candied itself comes from the verb candie which means to cook in sugar and is derived from sucre candi. Hence, the etymology of the term candy fruit is a combination of the English word candy and the preservation technique of fruit known as candying.
