Description
Homemade saltwater taffy from coastal New England delivers sweet nostalgia with classic pulled candy techniques. Sugary strands stretch and pull into delightful treats you can enjoy right from your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240 ml) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsalted butter
Liquid Components:
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
Flavor and Seasoning:
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a medium saucepan and combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt over medium heat, gently stirring until sugar completely dissolves.
- Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until the candy thermometer precisely reaches 260°F, monitoring carefully to prevent burning.
- Immediately remove from heat and gently incorporate butter and vanilla extract, adding food coloring drops if desired for visual appeal.
- Carefully transfer the molten mixture onto a generously greased marble surface or heatproof baking sheet, letting it cool for approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Once temperature reduces, begin the taffy pulling process by repeatedly stretching and folding the mixture with buttered hands, continuing until the texture transforms into a glossy, smooth consistency.
- Continue pulling for 10-15 minutes, ensuring the taffy becomes less sticky and more pliable.
- Using butter-coated hands, gently separate the taffy into small, uniform bite-sized pieces.
- Individually wrap each piece securely in wax paper, twisting ends to create classic taffy presentation.
Notes
- Candy Thermometer Precision: Always use a reliable candy thermometer to accurately reach 260F, as slight temperature variations can drastically change taffy texture.
- Temperature Control: Remove the mixture from heat immediately at 260F to prevent burning or creating a tough, brittle candy.
- Pulling Technique: Stretch and fold the taffy consistently to incorporate air, creating a light, smooth texture that gives traditional saltwater taffy its signature soft chewiness.
- Surface Protection: Use a silicone mat or heavily greased surface to prevent sticking and make pulling easier, especially for beginner candy makers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 105
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 25 mg
- Fat: 3.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg