Freeze dried sweets are a growing trend in the world of confectionery — offering a new way to enjoy familiar treats with a surprising texture and intensified flavour. But what exactly are they, how are they made, and why are they suddenly so popular?
What Does “Freeze Dried” Mean?
Freeze drying is a process that removes moisture from food while preserving its structure, flavour, and nutrients. Originally developed for preserving meals in space or for survival rations, the technique is now being used to create next-level snacks and sweets.
In the case of candy, freeze drying transforms chewy or soft textures into crisp, airy bites that quite literally melt in your mouth.
How Are Freeze Dried Sweets Made?
The process begins by freezing the sweets at very low temperatures. Once frozen, they’re placed in a vacuum chamber where the ice inside the sweets turns directly into vapour — a process called sublimation.
This removes all the water without melting the product, which means the shape, flavour, and colour remain intact, but the texture becomes light and crunchy.
What Makes Freeze Dried Sweets Unique?
- Crispy Texture: Unlike traditional chewy sweets, freeze dried versions are crisp, airy, and almost weightless.
- Intense Flavour: With the moisture removed, the taste becomes more concentrated and bold.
- Long Shelf Life: No moisture means less chance of spoilage — perfect for long-term storage.
- Mess-Free Snacking: No stickiness, no melting — just clean, crunchy fun.
Examples of Popular Freeze Dried Sweets
Some of the most popular treats to freeze dry include:
- Skittles
- Gummy bears
- Marshmallows
- Taffy
- Fruit chews
Each candy reacts differently to the process, creating a variety of textures and surprises with every bite.
Why Are Freeze Dried Sweets So Popular?
Aside from their unique texture, freeze dried sweets have exploded in popularity thanks to viral videos, social media trends, and a growing curiosity around innovative food experiences. They’re fun to eat, eye-catching, and bring new life to well-known flavours.
Where to Buy Freeze Dried Sweets in the UK
You can now find freeze dried sweets online, with specialist shops offering small-batch, handcrafted options. At UFO Candy, for example, we take pride in creating high-quality freeze dried versions of your favourite treats — including freeze dried Skittles, gummies, and more.
