Making Hard Christmas Candy Old Fashioned style is a cherished holiday tradition. The enticing aroma that fills the house and the joy of gifting these homemade treats to loved ones makes it a truly special experience. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to crafting these delightful candies.
A Timeless Treat with a Rich History
The tradition of making old fashioned hard candy often brings families and friends together during the holiday season. For many, it evokes memories of warm kitchens filled with laughter and the sweet scent of boiling sugar. This candy-making process, passed down through generations, connects us to the past and creates new memories for years to come.
Essential Tips for Candy-Making Success
Before embarking on this sweet adventure, keep these important tips in mind:
- Preparation is Key: Protect your work surfaces by covering them with newspaper and aluminum foil. Line your stovetop as well to prevent sticky spills. Wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes for safety.
- The Right Tools: Invest in a high-quality candy thermometer to ensure the sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature (hard crack stage at 300°F). LorAnn Oils are highly recommended for flavoring, offering a wide variety of options and excellent intensity.
Minimizing the Mess: Pro Tips for Easy Cleanup
- Simmering Water Trick: Keep a large pot of water simmering on the stove. Use this to easily clean pots and measuring cups by dissolving any residual candy syrup.
- Easy Transfer: Use a heat-proof glass container sprayed with canola oil to transfer the hot syrup to powdered sugar troughs.
- Powdered Sugar Troughs: Create troughs in powdered sugar on baking sheets using a thick plastic hanger. This helps in forming even candy pieces. Prepare three baking sheets for each batch to streamline the process.
Crafting Hard Candy: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Reaching Hard Crack Stage: In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Heat over medium heat until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), constantly monitoring with a candy thermometer.
- Adding Flavor and Color: Remove from heat and stir in the desired flavoring oil and food coloring.
- Pouring into Troughs: Carefully pour the hot syrup into the prepared powdered sugar troughs.
- Cooling and Breaking: Allow the candy to cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
Storing Your Hard Christmas Candy Old Fashioned
Store your hard candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 12 months. For larger quantities, use a mason jar with a small bag of rice (with tiny holes poked in it) at the bottom to absorb moisture and maintain freshness.
Conclusion: Embrace the Tradition
Making hard Christmas candy old fashioned style offers a rewarding experience that combines culinary creativity with the warmth of holiday traditions. Follow these tips and enjoy the process of crafting these beautiful and delicious treats, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
