Ah, the sweet smell of holiday treats wafting through the house! Every time I make *old fashioned christmas candy*, I’m instantly transported back to my childhood kitchen, surrounded by my family. We’d gather around the stove, the excitement bubbling as we stirred the bubbling mixture. It was a beautiful chaos of laughter, spilled sugar, and sticky fingers! This candy has a way of bringing everyone together, filling our hearts with warmth and sweetness. I can still hear my grandma’s voice reminding us to be careful with that hot syrup. Trust me, once you make this candy, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime—just like I did!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract
- 2 cups chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Food coloring (optional for a festive appearance)
How to Prepare *Old Fashioned Christmas Candy*
Making *old fashioned christmas candy* is an adventure that brings together patience and excitement! Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful treat. Trust me, it’s easier than it sounds, and I’ll guide you through every moment!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by combining 2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 cup of light corn syrup, and 1 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Set it over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture gently until the sugar has completely dissolved. This is super important—don’t rush it! You want a smooth base for your candy.
- Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a boil. Here’s the trick: don’t stir it anymore! Let it bubble away until it reaches the hard crack stage, which is about 300°F (149°C). This is where a candy thermometer becomes your best friend!
- As it boils, keep an eye on the color change. It’ll go from a clear syrup to a beautiful golden hue. When it reaches that magic temperature, take it off the heat.
- Now, stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of pure almond extract, and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Be careful, it’ll bubble up a bit, so stand back! If you want to add some festive flair, this is the time to mix in a few drops of food coloring.
- Pour the hot mixture onto a greased baking sheet, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. If you’re using 2 cups of chopped nuts, sprinkle them on top now!
- Let the candy cool completely at room temperature. This is the hardest part—waiting! Once it’s set, you can break it into pieces and enjoy your homemade holiday treat.
And there you have it! The process is straightforward, and the results are absolutely worth it. Get ready for the sweet memories this candy will create!
Tips for Success
To make sure your *old fashioned christmas candy* turns out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, keep an eye on that temperature—using a candy thermometer is crucial to hit the hard crack stage at 300°F (149°C). If you don’t have one, try the cold water test: drop a bit of the syrup into cold water, and if it forms a hard ball, you’re golden!
Also, don’t be shy about adjusting the flavorings. If you love almond, add a touch more! And remember, the candy can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up. With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be the star of the holiday treat scene!
Variations
The beauty of *old fashioned christmas candy* is its versatility! If you want to switch things up, try experimenting with different flavor extracts like peppermint or coconut for a festive twist. Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can give it that warm spice note, perfect for the holidays! You can also mix in various types of nuts, like almonds or pecans, to change up the texture. And don’t forget about dried fruits! Chopped cranberries or cherries can add a pop of color and flavor. The options are endless, so get creative and make this candy your own!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your *old fashioned christmas candy*, presentation is key! For a festive touch, arrange the pieces on a beautiful holiday platter, maybe alongside some fresh fruits or cookies for a delightful spread. If you’re feeling generous, consider packaging them in cute little bags or boxes tied with ribbons—they make wonderful homemade gifts for friends and family! And here’s a cozy idea: serve them with a warm cup of hot cocoa or a spiced holiday tea. Trust me, the combination of sweet candy and a warm drink is pure bliss during the chilly season!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. Typically, each piece of *old fashioned christmas candy* contains around 150 calories, with 30g of sugar and 7g of fat. You’ll also find about 1g of protein per serving, along with minimal sodium. If you’re watching your intake, it’s always good to enjoy this treat in moderation. But trust me, the sweetness is worth every bite during the holiday season!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making *old fashioned christmas candy*? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I hear from fellow candy makers:
Can I use different types of sugar?
Absolutely! While granulated sugar is traditional, you can experiment with brown sugar for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that it might alter the texture slightly.
How long does it last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, your candy can last up to two weeks at room temperature. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up!
What can I substitute for corn syrup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use honey or maple syrup, though it may change the flavor a bit. Just remember that the consistency might vary, so keep an eye on the candy’s texture as it cooks.
Can I make this candy in advance?
Definitely! Making your *old fashioned christmas candy* a few days ahead of time is a great idea. It gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully!
Why did my candy not set?
If your candy didn’t set, it might not have reached the hard crack stage. Use a candy thermometer next time to ensure you hit that critical temperature of 300°F (149°C).
Old Fashioned Christmas Candy: 7 Sweet Memories Await
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 pounds 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic treat enjoyed during the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup butter
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil without stirring.
- Continue boiling until the mixture reaches the hard crack stage (300°F).
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, almond extract, and butter.
- Add food coloring if desired.
- Pour mixture onto a greased baking sheet and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts on top if using.
- Let cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature.
- Adjust flavorings to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: old fashioned christmas candy
