π«π§ Sure thing! I’d be happy to provide you with a copycat recipe for Baby Ruth bars along with some history and details. π
What is a Baby Ruth Bar?
A Baby Ruth bar is a classic American candy bar known for its delicious combination of nougat, caramel, and peanuts, all coated in chocolate. It’s a sweet and nutty treat that has been a favorite among candy enthusiasts for many years.
History:
The Baby Ruth bar was created by the Curtiss Candy Company in Chicago in 1921. It was originally named after the famous baseball player Babe Ruth, but the company claimed it was named after Ruth Cleveland, the daughter of President Grover Cleveland. This naming controversy has added to the candy bar’s intrigue and popularity over the years.
Components:
To make a copycat Baby Ruth bar, you’ll need the following components:
- Nougat layer
- Caramel layer
- Roasted peanuts
- Milk chocolate coating
Ingredients:
For the nougat:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups marshmallow fluff
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups dry roasted peanuts
For the caramel layer:
- 1 cup caramel candies
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
For the chocolate coating:
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips
Steps to Prepare:
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Start by preparing a 9×9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly.
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, milk, and butter for the nougat layer. Stir continuously until the mixture reaches 240Β°F (115Β°C) on a candy thermometer.
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Remove the mixture from heat and add the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
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Quickly fold in the dry roasted peanuts, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the nougat mixture.
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Transfer the nougat mixture into the prepared baking pan and press it down evenly. Allow it to cool.
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In a separate saucepan, melt the caramel candies with heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth.
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Pour the caramel mixture over the nougat layer, ensuring an even distribution.
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Let it cool and set in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
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Once the caramel layer has set, melt the milk chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop.
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Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly.
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Return the pan to the refrigerator and let it chill until the chocolate hardens.
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Once fully set, remove the candy from the pan, and cut it into bars or squares.
Time Needed:
The preparation and cooling time for Baby Ruth bars can take approximately 2-3 hours, with most of it being inactive time while the layers set in the refrigerator. This recipe yields about 12 bars, depending on how you cut them.
Enjoy your homemade Baby Ruth bars! π«π
π«π Certainly! Here’s the nutrition facts and some health information for the copycat Baby Ruth bars:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving, assuming 12 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 34g
- Protein: 5g
Health Information:
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Caloric Content: Baby Ruth bars are relatively high in calories, with each serving containing approximately 320 calories. It’s essential to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
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Fat: These bars are moderately high in fat, with 15 grams per serving, including 6 grams of saturated fat. Saturated fats should be consumed in limited quantities as they are associated with cardiovascular health concerns.
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Sugar: Baby Ruth bars are quite sweet, with around 34 grams of sugar per serving. High sugar consumption can lead to weight gain and other health issues, so it’s advisable to limit your intake of sugary treats.
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Protein and Fiber: The bars provide a modest amount of protein (5g) and a small amount of dietary fiber (2g). Protein is essential for muscle and tissue health, while fiber aids in digestion.
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Portion Control: Given the high calorie and sugar content, it’s wise to consume Baby Ruth bars in moderation. They can be an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your diet.
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Allergens: Baby Ruth bars contain peanuts and dairy, so be cautious if you have allergies to these ingredients.
Remember, enjoying sweets like Baby Ruth bars occasionally is okay, but it’s crucial to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients from fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains for overall health.