Christmas Candy Canes
Christmas Candy Canes Recipe - USA - Ingredients: sugar, peppermint flavoring, water, corn syrup, vegetable coloring, cream of tartar
Introduction
Christmas Candy Canes are a classic holiday treat that are not only delicious, but also fun to make. These iconic red and white striped candies are a staple during the holiday season and are perfect for decorating your Christmas tree or giving as gifts to friends and family.
History
The origins of the candy cane can be traced back to the 17th century in Europe, where they were originally straight and all white. It wasn't until the 20th century that the iconic red and white stripes became popular. Legend has it that the shape of the candy cane is meant to represent the shepherd's crook, while the white symbolizes purity and the red represents the blood of Christ.
Ingredients
- 3 cups of sugar
- 1 tsp of peppermint flavoring
- 0.5 cup of water
- 0.75 cup of light corn syrup
- 0.75 tsp of red vegetable coloring
- 0.25 tsp of cream of tartar
How to prepare
- Combine the sugar, water, syrup, and cream of tartar and heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Divide the mixture into two saucepans and boil without stirring until each reaches a temperature of 280°F (138°C).
- Add 0.5 tsp of peppermint extract to each saucepan. Add food coloring to one saucepan and leave the other plain. Place them on an enamel or marble table to cool.
- Before placing the mixture on the table, make sure to oil the surface.
- Stretch and pull the mixture like taffy, forming ropes of red and white. Twist them together repeatedly.
- Shape the mixture into candy canes.
- Allow the candy canes to harden on an oiled surface. Then, announce to your family that they are ready to be hung on the Christmas tree.
Variations
- Add different flavors of extract, such as peppermint or cinnamon, for a unique twist.
- Use different food coloring to create candy canes in various colors.
- Add crushed candy canes or sprinkles for extra texture and flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use a candy thermometer to ensure that the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature.
- Oil the surface before stretching and pulling the candy mixture to prevent sticking.
- Work quickly when shaping the candy canes, as the mixture will harden fast.
- Store the candy canes in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy Christmas Candy Canes on their own as a sweet treat, or use them to decorate your Christmas tree.
Cooking Techniques
Stretch and pull the candy mixture to create the iconic striped pattern of candy canes.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use different flavors of extract or food coloring to customize the candy canes to your liking.
- Honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for corn syrup.
Make Ahead Tips
Christmas Candy Canes can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Presentation Ideas
Display the candy canes in a jar or tin for a festive and decorative touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Enjoy Christmas Candy Canes with a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy holiday treat.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Christmas Candy Canes in an airtight container at room temperature. They do not need to be reheated.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Christmas Candy Canes contains approximately 120 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Christmas Candy Canes contains approximately 30g of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Christmas Candy Canes contains approximately 0g of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Christmas Candy Canes contains approximately 0g of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Christmas Candy Canes do not contain significant amounts of vitamins or minerals.
Alergens
Christmas Candy Canes may contain traces of corn syrup.
Summary
Christmas Candy Canes are a sweet treat that are high in carbohydrates and calories, but low in fats and proteins. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Christmas Candy Canes are a classic holiday treat that are fun to make and delicious to eat. With their iconic red and white stripes, they are perfect for decorating your Christmas tree or giving as gifts to loved ones. Enjoy these sweet treats in moderation as part of your holiday celebrations.
How did I get this recipe?
The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a cold December morning, and I was rummaging through an old wooden chest that belonged to my great-grandmother. As I sifted through the musty old papers and trinkets, I stumbled upon a faded recipe card with the words "Christmas Candy Canes" written in elegant script.
My heart skipped a beat as I read through the ingredients and instructions. It was a simple recipe, but one that held so much potential for holiday cheer. I could almost taste the peppermint sweetness and feel the warmth of the kitchen as the candy canes cooled on the counter.
I immediately set to work gathering the ingredients - sugar, corn syrup, peppermint extract, and red food coloring. As I began to mix and shape the candy, memories flooded back to me of Christmases past. I remembered my great-grandmother's laughter as she shaped the candy canes with her nimble fingers, her apron dusted with powdered sugar.
I had always loved baking with her as a child, learning the art of cooking from her wise hands. She had passed down so many recipes to me over the years, each one a treasure trove of memories and flavors. But this recipe felt different somehow, more special and magical.
As I pulled the first batch of candy canes out of the oven, the sweet smell of peppermint filled the air. I couldn't help but smile as I carefully twisted and shaped each candy cane, feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me.
The candy canes turned out beautifully, their red and white stripes gleaming in the light. I knew that they would be a hit at our family Christmas gathering, a sweet reminder of the love and tradition that bound us together.
When Christmas Day arrived, I proudly presented my homemade candy canes to my family. Their eyes lit up with delight as they bit into the sweet, minty treats, savoring the taste of Christmas.
My grandmother, who had always been my biggest cheerleader in the kitchen, beamed with pride as she watched me share my creation with the family. She told me that the recipe for Christmas Candy Canes had been passed down through generations of our family, a symbol of love and tradition that connected us to our roots.
As I looked around at my family, laughing and chatting around the Christmas tree, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the recipes and memories that had been passed down to me. Cooking had always been more than just a hobby for me - it was a way to connect with my past, to honor the legacy of those who came before me.
And as I savored the last bite of my homemade candy cane, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart. It was more than just a sweet treat - it was a reminder of the love and tradition that bound our family together, year after year. And for that, I was truly grateful.