Real Candy Canes Recipe
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with these homemade candy canes that are not only delicious but also a joy to make. This recipe, straight from Chef Michael Chiarello as seen on the CBS Early Show, promises delightful treats that are perfect for Christmas or any occasion. However, exercise caution as the high heat required for the sugar syrup could cause severe burns. Be sure to follow the safety tips provided, including the use of Silpats and rubber gloves, to ensure a safe and enjoyable candy-making experience.
Recipe Information
- Cook Time: Not specified
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 20 pieces
- Yield: 20 pieces
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 97.6
- Fat Content: 0g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 0.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 25g
- Fiber Content: 0g
- Sugar Content: 25g
- Protein Content: 0g
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 9 tablespoons water
- 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
Recipe Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Prepare Silpat: Place a cookie sheet with a small Silpat on the top rack inside the oven. Silpats are silicone mats that prevent the hot sugar from sticking, ensuring a smooth candy-making process.
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Color Variation: If you’re using two or more colors, stagger the cookery time by 15 or 20 minutes to simplify the process of forming the sugar syrup into a workable mass later on.
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Prepare Sugar Syrup: In a two-quart non-reactive saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and white vinegar. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
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Heat Sugar Syrup: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and insert a candy thermometer. Bring the sugar syrup to a temperature of 320 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s crucial to monitor the temperature closely to achieve the desired consistency.
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Prevent Crystals Formation: While the syrup is cooking, keep the inside of the saucepan clean by periodically brushing it with a clean pastry brush dipped in cold water. This prevents crystals from forming and ensures a smooth candy texture.
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Add Flavoring: When the syrup is a couple of degrees below the desired temperature, carefully add your chosen flavoring. Take caution to avoid splatters, as the syrup will be extremely hot.
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Transfer to Silpat: Once the syrup reaches the desired temperature, carefully pour it onto a Silpat pastry mat. Add food coloring as desired and gently swirl it into the syrup using a wooden skewer.
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Shape the Candy: As the syrup cools, it will become malleable. Use the Silpat mat to fold the syrup onto itself until it forms a soft mound. Then, knead and pull the sugar until it becomes glossy and evenly colored.
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Keep Warm: Transfer the soft candy to the oven to keep it warm. Rotate the tray periodically to maintain a consistent temperature.
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Repeat Process: If making multiple colors, repeat the process for each color, ensuring they are spaced apart on the Silpat to prevent them from touching.
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Form Candy Canes: To make candy canes, pull a small amount of each color and cut it with scissors. Shape each color into a one-inch by three-inch rectangle and layer them on top of each other. Roll the sugar into a round shape, applying gentle pressure.
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Twist and Shape: Gently twist and pull the sugar to form the candy cane shape, rolling it on the Silpat mat to maintain warmth and softness.
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Cool and Store: Let the candy canes cool for up to 30 minutes. Once hardened, store them in an airtight container lined with parchment or wax paper for up to three days.
Additional Tips
- Practice caution when working with hot sugar syrup to avoid burns. Use rubber gloves and Silpat mats to protect your hands and surfaces.
- Experiment with different flavors and colors to customize your candy canes for various occasions.
- Mastering the candy-making process may require some practice, especially in maintaining consistent heat and texture.
- Enjoy your homemade candy canes as festive treats or delightful gifts for friends and family.
Conclusion
With this detailed recipe and safety precautions in mind, you’re ready to embark on a delightful candy-making adventure. Whether you’re crafting these candy canes for holiday festivities or simply indulging your sweet tooth, the joy of homemade treats is sure to delight all who taste them. So gather your ingredients, don your gloves, and let the magic of candy-making begin!
