How to Make Old Fashioned Hard Candy
User Reviews
5
How to Make Old Fashioned Hard Candy
Description
The method involves heating a mixture of sugar, water, and corn syrup in a heavy pan over medium heat until the temperature reaches 300°F, the hard crack stage for candies. Once removed from heat, a small amount of flavored oil, such as spearmint, and a few drops of food coloring are stirred in carefully to avoid melting. The mixture is then poured slowly into molds or troughs to cool.
After cooling and hardening, the candy is broken into strips or pieces and stored in airtight containers at room temperature to preserve freshness. The texture is crisp and brittle with a smooth surface. Using different flavor oils and colors allows for making various candy batches tailored to preference. Avoid refrigeration as it can cause moisture to form on the candy.
Proper storage extends the shelf life up to 12 months in sealed containers. For longer storage, placing a small breathable packet of rice at the bottom of the jar can help absorb moisture and keep the candy fresh. This recipe is a basic classic for homemade hard candy enthusiasts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- ¾ cup corn syrup
- 3.7 ml spearmint oil (use other oils for each flavored batch)
- Food Coloring as needed
Instructions
- In a heavy pan, mix sugar, water and corn syrup. Heat on medium on the stove until the temperature reaches 300°F.
- Remove from heat, and stir in the flavored oil, and then the food coloring. I would not do more than 3-4 drops of coloring. It all depends on the intensity of the color you want to achieve. Use 1 bottle of flavor oil per batch. (1 dram, 3.7 ml or .125 oz.)
- Transfer contents to glass heat proof container.
- Slowly pour contents into the troughs.
- Allow the strips to cool, then break apart and place in containers. I like to place different flavors in different containers.
Notes
- Store hard candy in airtight containers at room temperature to maintain freshness.
- Avoid refrigerating the candy to prevent moisture accumulation which can affect texture.
- Properly stored candy can last up to 12 months in a sealed container.
- For bulk storage, add a small bag of rice with ventilation holes to absorb moisture inside large jars.
- Use one bottle (3.7 ml) of flavoring oil per batch to achieve balanced taste.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 20servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 2271 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 100g | |
| Calories | 2271kcal | 114% |
| Carbohydrates | 596g | 199% |
| Sodium | 175mg | 7% |
| Sugar | 595g | 1190% |
| Calcium | 33mg | 3% |
| Iron | 0.2mg | 1% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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