hard boiled candy recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best hard boiled candy recipe

I’m so excited to share my favorite hard-boiled candy recipe with you. This classic treat has been a staple in many American households for generations, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and can be customized to suit any occasion. As a busy mom of three, I appreciate that this recipe is quick to prepare and can be made in large batches, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always thrilled to be the first ones to try the freshly made candies. The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile – you can add flavorings like extracts or oils to create unique and tasty variations.

Plus, with only a few ingredients required, it’s an affordable treat that won’t break the bank. One of my favorite things about hard-boiled candies is the way they’re made with just a few simple ingredients: sugar, water, and food coloring. It’s amazing how something so simple can be transformed into something so magical with just a bit of heat and patience.

My family loves this recipe because it’s not only delicious but also healthy – there are no artificial additives or preservatives required. We’ve even started making it with natural food colorings to avoid any harsh chemicals. The process of making these candies is meditative and calming, and it’s a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones.

We often make them together as a family activity on lazy Sundays or during holidays when we’re looking for a fun project to work on together. This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m so grateful to have the opportunity to share it with you today.

Classic Hard Boiled Candy

4.7 from 1325 votes

This recipe yields clear, glass-like hard candy with a sweet, fruity flavor. The candy is cooked to the hard crack stage for a satisfying crunch.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 24 piecesCuisine: InternationalCalories: 60 kcal per piece

🥘Ingredients

For the Candy

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon flavored extract (e.g., peppermint, lemon, or cherry)
2-3 drops food coloring (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water.
3Stir gently over medium heat until sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes.
4Attach a candy thermometer to the pan and increase heat to medium-high.
5Bring mixture to a boil without stirring; let it boil until temperature reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), about 15 minutes.
6Watch closely as the syrup will darken slightly.
7Remove pan from heat immediately and let bubbles subside for 30 seconds.
8Stir in flavored extract and food coloring if using; the mixture will bubble up briefly.
9Pour hot syrup onto prepared baking sheet in a thin, even layer.
10Allow candy to cool completely at room temperature without moving, about 20 minutes, until it is hard and brittle.
11Break into pieces by hand or with a mallet.
12Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

🔧Equipment

Heavy-bottomed saucepan
Candy thermometer
Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Silicone spatula
Small bowl for extract and coloring

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 60 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 5mg🌾Total Carbs: 16g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 16g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

Do not stir the syrup once it begins boiling to prevent crystallization. For best results, use a clean candy thermometer and avoid humid weather. Store candy in a dry, cool place.

Watch Video Of How Classic Hard Boiled Candy Works

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility – you can make it in large batches or customize it with different flavorings.

My family loves helping me make these candies together on lazy Sundays or during holidays when we’re looking for a fun project to work on together.

Whether you’re planning a family gathering or just need a sweet treat on hand, this recipe is sure to please.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hard Boiled Candy

Q: What is hard-boiled candy made of?

Hard-boiled candy is typically made from sugar, water, and food coloring. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients like flavorings or extracts.

Q: Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with different flavorings like extracts or oils to create unique and tasty variations.

Q: Is hard-boiled candy good for kids?

This recipe makes a great snack for kids – it’s healthy and easy to make in large batches.

Q: Can I store hard-boiled candy for later use?

Yes – these candies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Q: How do I reheat hard-boiled candy?

You can reheat these candies by placing them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or by wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven at 200°F (90°C) for 5-7 minutes.

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