Here’s a simple guide to making Hardtack Candy, a classic treat often enjoyed around the holidays:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups sugar
- 2/3 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon flavored oil (like peppermint, cinnamon, or cherry)
- Food coloring (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mold/Surface:
- Lightly grease a cookie sheet or line it with parchment paper. Dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Heat the Ingredients:
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Stop stirring once it boils to avoid crystallization.
- Boil to Hard Crack Stage:
- Boil the mixture until it reaches the “hard crack” stage, or 300°F (150°C), using a candy thermometer. This ensures the candy will harden properly.
- Add Flavor and Color:
- Once it reaches the correct temperature, remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in your desired flavoring oil and food coloring (optional). Be cautious, as the oil can cause some steam.
- Pour and Cool:
- Immediately pour the hot candy onto your prepared surface and spread it out thinly. Allow it to cool completely.
- Break into Pieces:
- Once hardened, dust with more powdered sugar, and break the candy into small pieces by tapping it with a mallet or knife.
Enjoy your homemade hardtack candy! Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For more tips, feel free to check out sources like AllRecipes or Taste of Home.