Description
Here is a simple recipe for making homemade candy canes
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup water
- Food coloring (optional)
- Peppermint extract or other desired flavor extract
Instructions
- Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.
- Raise the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Do not stir the mixture while it boils.
- Using a candy thermometer, continue to cook the mixture until it reaches the hard ball stage (260-290°F).
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in a few drops of food coloring, if desired, and several drops of peppermint extract or other desired flavor extract.
- Pour the mixture onto a greased surface and let it cool until it is cool enough to handle.
- Knead the mixture until it becomes pliable and smooth.
- Roll out the mixture into a long, thin rope. Cut the rope into small pieces and shape each piece into a cane or staff shape.
- Allow the candy canes to cool completely before serving.
Notes
Making candy canes requires some precision and patience, as the candy mixture needs to be cooked to the correct temperature and handled carefully during the shaping process. If you are new to making candy, it may take some practice to get the hang of it. Some things to keep in mind:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the candy mixture reaches the correct temperature. If the mixture is not cooked to the correct temperature, it may be too soft or too hard when cooled.
- Work quickly when shaping the candy canes, as the mixture will become harder to manipulate as it cools.
- Use a greased surface to roll out the candy mixture and shape the canes. This will prevent the candy from sticking to the surface and make it easier to shape.
- If the candy becomes too hard to shape as it cools, you can try warming it up slightly by placing it in a warm oven or microwave for a few seconds.
- If you are using food coloring, be sure to use a small amount, as the flavor of the coloring can be overpowering.
- Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the candy mixture into small pieces and shape them into canes.
- If you are having trouble shaping the canes into smooth, curved shapes, you can try using a rolling pin to roll out the mixture into a thin, even layer, and then cutting it into thin strips before shaping them into canes.
- Be sure to allow the candy canes to cool completely before serving or storing them. If the canes are not completely cool, they may become soft and lose their shape
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Keywords: Candy Cane