How to Color Candy Melts

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Things You'll Need

  • White candy melts

  • Oil-based candy colors

  • Microwave-safe bowl

  • Spoon

Use colored candy melts to make pastel-colored cake pops.
Image Credit: arinahabich/iStock/Getty Images

Custom-colored candy can be a powerful tool in a pastry artist's box. From one-of-a-kind candies to cake decorations, you can make a rainbow of treats to please your family and friends. Candy melts contain oil, so you'll need to use oil-based food coloring -- the standard set of liquid food colors from the supermarket's baking aisle won't work. White candy melts give you the blank canvas you need to make custom colors.

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Step 1

Place the candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. If you're working on a large project, such as coating a dozen or so bite-size treats, you'll need to melt around 1 pound of candy.

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Step 2

Melt the candy following the manufacturer's instructions printed on the package, which vary. Typically, use your microwave's lowest setting, such as the defrost setting, for around 1 minute. Check the melts after 45 seconds to ensure they're not melting too fast. Adjust the time accordingly.

Step 3

Add oil-based candy colors gradually, one drop at a time. Blend the candy and color well. Continue adding color until you get the intensity you want. You can add more melted candy if the color ends up too dark.

Tip

Buy oil-based candy colors, which typically are sold alongside candy melts in craft stores, at larger supermarkets or online.

Warning

Use only dry equipment when working with candy melts. Drops of water may cause streaking.

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