Angel Food Candy

Angel Food Candy Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Angel Food Candy, also known as sponge candy or honeycomb toffee, is a delightful treat that combines the airy texture of caramelized sugar foam with the rich taste of chocolate. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating this unique confectionery at home. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or as a homemade gift, Angel Food Candy is sure to impress with its crunchy yet melt-in-your-mouth texture and decadent chocolate coating.

History

The origins of Angel Food Candy can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it first gained popularity in the United States and the United Kingdom. Known by various names depending on the region, this candy has been a beloved treat for generations. Its unique texture is achieved through the reaction of baking soda with the caramelized sugar syrup, creating an aerated, sponge-like structure that distinguishes it from other candies.

Ingredients

2 cups of light corn syrup (karo)
2 cups of firmly packed brown sugar
4 tsp of baking soda
4 oz (113 g) of semi-sweet chocolate, cut up
12 oz (340 g) of chocolate chips (1 package)
0.25 cup of butter or regular margarine
paraffin

How to prepare

Combine the corn syrup and brown sugar in a 4 qt (3.78 liter) heavy Dutch oven.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils.
Continue cooking the mixture until it reaches the hard crack stage (300°F (149°C)) on the candy thermometer, stirring occasionally.
Remove from the heat and carefully stir in the baking soda being careful as the mixture will foam up.
Pour the mixture at once into a greased 13x9x2 inches baking pan.
When cool, turn out of the pan.
Break into pieces using a meat mallet or wooden spoon.
Combine the semi-sweet chocolate pieces and the chocolate chips, butter, and paraffin wax in the top of a double boiler.
Place over simmering water, stirring until melted.
Remove from the heat, but keep over the hot water.
Dip the candy into the chocolate using a large cooking fork.
Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets.
Let stand until the chocolate is set.
Store the candy in a cool place in covered containers.
If you wish, do not coat the candy with the chocolate. The candy can be stored for several months in the freezer.

Variations

Experiment with different types of chocolate for coating, such as milk, dark, or white chocolate. For a twist, add a pinch of sea salt or a drizzle of caramel on top of the chocolate-coated candy.

Notes

the first 4 oz (113 g) of semi sweet chocolate is in the block style.
Also the chocolate chips should be semi-sweet.
The paraffin should be a 2.5 x 3 inches piece that has been cut up.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Achieving the perfect Angel Food Candy requires attention to detail. Use a reliable candy thermometer to ensure the sugar syrup reaches the hard crack stage, which is crucial for the candy's texture. When adding the baking soda, stir quickly and pour immediately into the prepared pan to capture the airy texture before it collapses. For the chocolate coating, ensure the chocolate is smoothly melted and maintain it at a tempered warmth to achieve a glossy finish that sets well.

Serving Suggestions

Angel Food Candy can be served as a standalone treat or used as a decorative topping for cakes, cupcakes, and ice cream. For a festive touch, consider wrapping individual pieces in colored foil.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is cooking the sugar syrup to the hard crack stage and quickly incorporating the baking soda to achieve the candy's signature texture. Using a double boiler for melting the chocolate ensures a smooth, even coating.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute dark chocolate with a high cocoa content for the coating. Honey can be used in place of corn syrup for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Angel Food Candy can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or in the freezer for several months, making it perfect for advance preparation.

Presentation Ideas

Present Angel Food Candy in decorative boxes or bags for gifting. For a dessert platter, mix pieces of candy with nuts and dried fruits for an attractive display.

Pairing Recommendations

Angel Food Candy pairs well with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. For wine enthusiasts, try pairing it with a dessert wine like Port or Moscato for a delightful combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the candy in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If coated with chocolate, avoid high temperatures to prevent melting. Angel Food Candy does not require reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Angel Food Candy contains approximately 150-200 calories, with the majority coming from sugars and fats.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Angel Food Candy is primarily composed of carbohydrates, with the main sources being sugar and corn syrup. Each serving contains approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, the majority of which are sugars.

Fats

The fat content in Angel Food Candy comes from the chocolate coating and the small amount of margarine used in the recipe. A serving typically contains 5-10 grams of fat, depending on the type of chocolate and the thickness of the coating.

Proteins

Angel Food Candy has minimal protein content, with each serving containing less than 1 gram of protein. This treat is primarily a source of carbohydrates and fats.

Vitamins and minerals

This candy is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals. However, the chocolate coating may provide small amounts of iron and magnesium, depending on the type of chocolate used.

Alergens

Common allergens in Angel Food Candy include soy (from chocolate) and dairy (if using milk chocolate or butter instead of margarine). This recipe can be modified to be allergen-friendly by choosing suitable chocolate substitutes.

Summary

Angel Food Candy is a high-carbohydrate, moderate-fat treat with minimal protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is an indulgence best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Angel Food Candy is a classic treat that combines the light, airy texture of sponge candy with the richness of chocolate. This recipe provides a detailed guide to creating this beloved confection at home, along with tips for customization and storage. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet indulgence, Angel Food Candy is sure to delight.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn everything I could about cooking and baking. I had always been intrigued by the art of candy making, and when I stumbled upon the recipe for Angel Food Candy in an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother, I knew I had to give it a try.

I can still remember the day I first made this delectable treat. The kitchen was filled with the sweet scent of sugar and vanilla as I carefully followed the instructions, mixing together sugar, corn syrup, and water in a heavy saucepan. I stirred the mixture over low heat until the sugar dissolved, then turned up the heat and let it boil until it reached the soft crack stage.

As the candy cooked, I added in chopped nuts and coconut, giving it a wonderful crunch and texture. Once the mixture had reached the desired temperature, I poured it out onto a greased cookie sheet and let it cool until it hardened into a beautiful golden brown color.

The first bite of Angel Food Candy was pure bliss. The sweet, buttery flavor melted on my tongue, and the crunchy nuts and coconut added the perfect contrast. I was hooked from that moment on, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my collection.

Over the years, I have made Angel Food Candy countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of making this sweet treat from generation to generation. It has become a beloved favorite among my loved ones, and whenever there is a special occasion or holiday, you can be sure that a batch of Angel Food Candy will be on the dessert table.

I have always loved how recipes have the power to connect us to our past and to the people who came before us. Every time I make Angel Food Candy, I am reminded of my great-grandmother, who first introduced me to the recipe, and of all the wonderful memories we shared in the kitchen. It is a way for me to honor her legacy and to keep her spirit alive through the joy of cooking.

As I look back on all the recipes I have collected over the years, I realize that each one tells a story. Whether it is a treasured family recipe passed down through generations or a new discovery that I stumbled upon in a cookbook, each dish has its own unique history and significance. And Angel Food Candy is no exception.

So as I stand in my kitchen today, surrounded by the aromas of sugar and vanilla, I am filled with gratitude for the joy that cooking has brought me throughout my life. And as I take a bite of the sweet, crunchy goodness of Angel Food Candy, I am reminded once again of the power of food to nourish not only our bodies but also our souls. It is a simple pleasure that brings so much happiness, and I am grateful for every moment spent creating delicious dishes to share with those I love.