Insert toothpicks or skewers into the stem end and place on a paper towel to dry. This will help the syrup adhere.
To make the syrup, grab a heavy bottom saucepan with a heavy bottom and combine the sugar, water, and corn syrup. Place it over medium-high heat and bring it to a boil. Keep stirring it to avoid overflowing and continue boiling it vigorously for around 5 minutes.
To ensure that the syrup sets correctly on the grapes, it's important to use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature when it reaches the hard crack stage between 300-305°F (148-152°C).
To prepare for your sweet and delicious candied grapes, it's time to get your baking sheet ready! Grab some parchment paper and line the sheet to create the perfect drying area. Your grapes will thank you for it!
Once your syrup is boiling, add the vanilla extract and food coloring. Be careful as the syrup will be very hot. Take each grape and dip it into the mixture, making sure to move quickly to get even coverage. After that, sprinkle or roll the grape in crushed Jolly Rancher candy.
Finally, place the coated grapes on your prepared parchment paper. Let them dry for approximately 30 minutes.
Once dry, carefully remove the toothpicks. For the best taste and texture, serve the grapes within a few hours.