Gather the following ingredients to start making your delicious homemade saltwater taffy:
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon flavored extract (strawberry, lemon, peppermint, etc.)
- Food coloring (optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Wax paper (for wrapping)
Directions
Follow these steps to create your homemade saltwater taffy:
- Step 1: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly butter it to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, cornstarch, corn syrup, salt, water, and butter over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 3: Attach a candy thermometer and cook the mixture without stirring until it reaches 250°F (hard ball stage).
- Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat immediately. Carefully stir in the vanilla and flavored extract, along with food coloring if desired.
- Step 5: Pour the hot candy onto the prepared baking sheet. Allow it to cool until it’s safe to handle, about 10–15 minutes.
- Step 6: Butter your hands and start pulling the taffy. Stretch and fold it over and over for 10–15 minutes, until the color lightens and the texture becomes firm.
- Step 7: Roll the taffy into long ropes and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
- Step 8: Dust each piece with powdered sugar to prevent sticking, and wrap them individually in wax paper.
FAQs
1. Can I make taffy without a candy thermometer?
While a thermometer is highly recommended for accurate temperature measurement, you may test the mixture by dropping a small amount into cold water to check for the hard ball stage.
2. How should I store homemade saltwater taffy?
Store your taffy in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for several weeks if kept away from humidity.
3. Can I use different flavors in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute any flavored extract of your choice to create unique combinations, such as peach, raspberry, or coconut.
4. Is it possible to make the taffy vegan?
You can substitute the butter with vegan margarine or a plant-based butter alternative.
5. Can I add fillings to the taffy?
While traditional saltwater taffy is typically made without fillings, you can add small amounts of crushed candy or flavored bits during the pulling process for a creative twist.
Conclusion
This homemade saltwater taffy recipe is a fun and rewarding project that yields a delightful treat. Perfect for any occasion or as a sweet gift, it allows you to tap into your creative side while enjoying a classic candy-making experience. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow directions, you can indulge in this chewy delight anytime.