What Is Freeze-Dried Candy? (And Why It Gets So Crunchy)

Freeze-dried candy is everywhere right now, and it is easy to see why: it is loud, light, and full of flavor. But what happens when you freeze-dry a piece of candy? Here is the simple version, plus a few of our favorites to try first.

What freeze drying does

Freeze drying takes almost all the water out of food without cooking it. We freeze the candy solid, then a machine pulls the water out as vapor. What is left keeps its size and flavor but loses its chew.

Why it turns crunchy and airy

As the water leaves, small pockets of air open up and stay trapped inside. Chewy or hard candy puffs up into something light and crisp that shatters when you bite it. The flavor stays behind, so each piece tastes stronger than before.

How ours is different

We make our freeze-dried candy in small batches in Long Beach, California, so every bag is fresh and sealed at its crunchiest. Small batches also let us rotate new, seasonal flavors through the shop.

Where to start

If you are new to freeze-dried candy, these three make an easy first bag:

• Sour Frittles — crunchy and fruity, with just enough sour.
• Air Bites — light, airy puffs that crunch and then melt.
• Neon Sour Puffs — bright and tangy.

Is it a healthier treat?

It is still candy — freeze drying changes the texture, not the sugar. To see how it compares, read our honest guide: Is Freeze-Dried Candy Bad for You?

Want to see the whole range? Browse the full freeze-dried candy collection.