I haven’t seen this candy in years, and I absolutely love it! I made a batch using your recipe this morning, and it’s already all gone. The grandkids couldn’t get enough of it!

INTRODUCTION

There’s a special kind of joy that comes from making candy in your own kitchen. It brings back sweet memories of yesteryears and creates new ones to cherish. One such delightful treat is the candy that brings smiles to faces young and old. This candy, beloved by many, is not just a simple snack; it’s a reminder of fond moments spent with family. When you create this treat, you not only enjoy its taste, but you also share love and happiness with those around you.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This candy is incredibly easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. You don’t need to be a professional chef to whip it up in your kitchen. It also allows for creativity, as you can add your favorite flavors or mix-ins. The best part? Once you make this candy, it will disappear quickly, especially if you have kids around. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family during gatherings or simply for a cozy night at home.

HOW TO MAKE Candy

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this candy, you will need:

• A saucepan
• A wooden spoon or spatula
• A baking sheet or pan
• Parchment paper
• Candy thermometer (optional but helpful)

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of corn syrup
• 1/4 cup of water
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Begin by preparing your baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper to prevent the candy from sticking. Set this aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Once the sugar has dissolved, add the butter and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Stir continuously until the butter melts and is fully combined.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle boil. If you have a candy thermometer, attach it to the saucepan. You’ll want to cook the mixture until it reaches the hard ball stage, which is around 250°F (121°C).
5. When your candy mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat.
6. Carefully stir in the vanilla extract. Be cautious, as it may bubble up slightly when added.
7. Pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out evenly with a spatula if needed.
8. Allow the candy to cool completely. Once cooled, you can break it into pieces and enjoy!

HOW TO SERVE Candy

Candy is best served as a sweet treat for everyone to enjoy. You can put it in a colorful bowl for a party or package it up as gifts for friends. It’s also a great addition to a dessert table during special occasions. Kids love it as an after-school snack, while adults appreciate it with a warm cup of coffee.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Candy

To keep your candy fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will last for several weeks, but trust me, it won’t last that long! If you want to freeze the candy, wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. Make sure to label the bag with the date. It should stay good for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, simply let it thaw at room temperature.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

There are many ways to enjoy candy. Consider pairing it with:

• A scoop of ice cream for a fun dessert.
• Crushed candy sprinkled over cupcakes or cookies.
• Giving it as a party favor wrapped in colorful cellophane.
• Using it as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt for a sweet breakfast twist.

VARIATIONS

You can easily modify this candy recipe to suit your taste:

• Nutty Candy: Add chopped nuts to the mixture just before pouring it onto the baking sheet.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once the candy has cooled, drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra sweet touch.
• Flavor Variations: Instead of vanilla extract, try almond, lemon, or mint extract for different flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
   Yes, you can use brown sugar, but it will change the flavor and color of the candy.

2. What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
   You can use the cold water test. Drop a small spoonful of the candy into cold water. If it forms a hard ball, it’s ready!

3. Can I add food coloring to the candy?
   Absolutely! Add a few drops of food coloring after removing the candy from the heat for a fun, colorful treat.

4. Is this recipe safe for kids to help with?
   Yes, but make sure to supervise them closely, especially when working with hot sugar.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Candy

If you want to prepare in advance, you can make the candy a week ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh. If you freeze it, be sure to let it thaw completely before serving for the best flavor and texture. Making candy ahead of time allows you to enjoy the sweet moments without the last-minute rush during special occasions or gatherings.

In conclusion, this candy recipe is a hit with everyone, especially the grandkids! It’s easy, fun, and full of flavor. You’ll likely find yourself making this treat time and time again, each batch stirring up warm memories and creating new ones. Grab your ingredients and get ready for a sweet adventure in your kitchen!

Print