Sugar glass facts for kids

Sugar glass is a special type of sugar candy that looks just like real glass! It's clear and breaks easily, which is why it's also called candy glass or edible glass. You can make it into flat sheets that look like window panes, or even shape it into objects like bottles or drinking glasses.

How is Sugar Glass Made?

Sugar glass starts with simple ingredients: sugar and water. You mix them together and then heat the mixture to a very high temperature. This temperature is usually around 150 °C (300 °F). Candy makers call this the "hard crack" stage.

To make sure the sugar glass stays clear and doesn't get cloudy, people often add glucose or corn syrup. These ingredients help stop the sugar from forming crystals again. Sometimes, cream of tartar is also used. It helps change some of the sugar into other types of sugar, which also keeps the glass smooth.

It's important to use sugar glass soon after it's made. This is because it loves to soak up moisture from the air. If it sits out for too long, it will start to get soft and sticky. Then, it won't break like real glass anymore.

Fun Uses for Sugar Glass

One of the most exciting ways sugar glass is used is in movies, TV shows, and plays! When a script calls for someone to break a bottle over an actor's head, they use a sugar glass bottle. It looks real but breaks safely without hurting anyone. It's also used in professional wrestling to make stunts look more dramatic.

Sugar glass is also used to create amazing sugar sculptures. These are edible art pieces that can be shaped into beautiful designs. It's a sweet way to make art!