Saltwater taffy is a classic, chewy candy that has delighted generations with its sweet, stretchy texture and a variety of flavors. Despite its name, it contains no saltwater but instead gets its name from its origins along the Atlantic coast. Making saltwater taffy at home is a fun and rewarding experience, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and colors. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, gifting it, or simply enjoying a nostalgic treat, this homemade version is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or preferred flavoring)
- 1/2 teaspoon food coloring (optional)
- Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare a large baking sheet by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch until well combined.
Step 3: Add the corn syrup, water, butter, and salt to the saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
Step 4: Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and continue cooking, without stirring, until it reaches 255°F (hard-ball stage). This ensures the proper consistency for stretching the taffy.
Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract (or your choice of flavoring) and food coloring if using. Be cautious, as the mixture will be extremely hot.
Step 6: Pour the hot taffy onto the prepared baking sheet and allow it to cool until it is warm to the touch but no longer too hot to handle.
Step 7: Once cooled enough, grease your hands lightly with butter and begin pulling the taffy by stretching and folding it repeatedly. Continue this process for about 10-15 minutes until the taffy becomes lighter in color and firm yet pliable.
Step 8: Roll the taffy into long ropes and cut it into bite-sized pieces using buttered scissors or a knife.
Step 9: Wrap each piece individually in wax paper, twisting the ends to secure. Store in an airtight container.
Variations
- Fruity Taffy: Substitute vanilla extract with fruit extracts like strawberry, raspberry, or lemon.
- Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint or spearmint extract for a refreshing twist.
- Swirled Taffy: Mix two different colors by folding them together lightly.
- Chocolate Taffy: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Always use a candy thermometer to ensure the correct temperature.
- Be careful when handling the hot syrup to avoid burns.
- Pulling the taffy adequately helps create the perfect chewy texture.
- Store the wrapped taffy in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming too sticky.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a sweet snack any time of the day.
- Use as a fun homemade gift for family and friends.
- Include in a candy buffet for special occasions.
- Pack in lunchboxes for a nostalgic treat.
Tips
- Work quickly when pulling the taffy, as it hardens as it cools.
- If the taffy becomes too sticky, lightly grease your hands with butter.
- Experiment with different flavors and colors to create a variety of options.
- Avoid making taffy on a humid day, as moisture can affect the texture.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes (plus cooling time)
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: ~60 per piece
- Protein: 0g per piece
- Sodium: ~10mg per piece
FAQs
Q: Does saltwater taffy contain actual saltwater?
A: No, the name originates from its coastal origins, but the recipe does not include saltwater.
Q: How do I prevent my taffy from becoming too hard?
A: Make sure to cook it to exactly 255°F and not beyond. Overcooking can lead to hard taffy.
Q: Can I make taffy without a candy thermometer?
A: It’s possible but more challenging. You can test the syrup by dropping a small amount into cold water—if it forms a firm but pliable ball, it’s ready.
Q: How long does homemade saltwater taffy last?
A: When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to two weeks.
Conclusion
Making homemade saltwater taffy is a delightful and rewarding process that allows for creativity in flavor and color choices. This chewy, stretchy candy is a timeless treat that brings joy to both the young and the young at heart. With simple ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can enjoy this nostalgic confection in the comfort of your own home. Try making a batch today and experience the sweet satisfaction of homemade taffy
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Homemade Saltwater Taffy
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or preferred flavoring)
- 1/2 teaspoon food coloring (optional)
- Cooking spray or additional butter for greasing
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare a large baking sheet by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray. Set aside.
Step 2: In a medium-sized saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch until well combined.
Step 3: Add the corn syrup, water, butter, and salt to the saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
Step 4: Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and continue cooking, without stirring, until it reaches 255°F (hard-ball stage). This ensures the proper consistency for stretching the taffy.
Step 5: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract (or your choice of flavoring) and food coloring if using. Be cautious, as the mixture will be extremely hot.
Step 6: Pour the hot taffy onto the prepared baking sheet and allow it to cool until it is warm to the touch but no longer too hot to handle.
Step 7: Once cooled enough, grease your hands lightly with butter and begin pulling the taffy by stretching and folding it repeatedly. Continue this process for about 10-15 minutes until the taffy becomes lighter in color and firm yet pliable.
Step 8: Roll the taffy into long ropes and cut it into bite-sized pieces using buttered scissors or a knife.
Step 9: Wrap each piece individually in wax paper, twisting the ends to secure. Store in an airtight container
Notes
- Always use a candy thermometer to ensure the correct temperature.
- Be careful when handling the hot syrup to avoid burns.
- Pulling the taffy adequately helps create the perfect chewy texture.
- Store the wrapped taffy in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming too sticky.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: : ~60 per piece
- Sodium: ~10mg per piece
- Protein: 0g per piece