Hard tack candy is a timeless confection that never fails to delight. Its versatility makes it a perfect choice for everything from festive occasions to everyday treats. With its vibrant colors and customizable flavors, this candy is not only easy to make but also an excellent way to add a personal touch to your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re crafting it for holiday gifts or as a fun project with the family, this recipe ensures a delightful experience for all skill levels.

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Ingredients and Preparation

To create this candy masterpiece, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: ½ cup of powdered sugar (65 grams), 1 cup of water (8 ounces), 1 cup of corn syrup (8 ounces), .125 ounces of LorAnn Flavoring Oil, 1.75 pounds of granulated sugar (about 3 ½ cups), and your choice of food coloring.

Equally important are the tools that will ensure your success. A sturdy saucepan, a candy thermometer for precise temperature control, a large baking sheet (at least 12×17 inches), parchment paper to prevent sticking, and a meat mallet for breaking the candy into pieces are essential. Assemble these items before you begin to streamline the process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Proper preparation and adherence to each step will yield flawless hard tack candy.

Begin by preparing your baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the entire surface. This step prevents the candy from sticking and makes cleanup effortless. Set the prepared sheet aside in an accessible spot.

Next, focus on the sugar mixture. Combine the granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup in a medium-sized saucepan. Place the pan over medium heat and stir continuously to dissolve the sugar. Maintaining a steady stirring motion ensures the mixture doesn’t burn or clump. If this is your first attempt, keep the heat moderate to gain confidence in handling the candy-making process.

Achieving the correct temperature is pivotal. Use a thermometer to monitor the mixture as it heats. When it reaches 280°F, it’s time to add the food coloring. Introduce a few drops at a time, stirring to blend until the desired hue is achieved. Then, continue cooking until the mixture reaches a temperature between 290°F and 295°F. These precise temperatures are essential for ensuring the candy sets properly and achieves the perfect texture.

Once the temperature is ideal, swiftly remove the saucepan from the heat and mix in the flavoring oil. This is the moment to infuse your candy with a burst of flavor. Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly to avoid thick spots that can be difficult to break.

Allow the candy to cool completely for about 30 minutes. Once it has hardened, use a meat mallet to break it into smaller, bite-sized pieces.

Complete the process by tossing the candy pieces in a resealable bag with powdered sugar. This step adds a finishing touch, preventing the pieces from sticking together while giving them a professional appearance.

Recipe Tips

Prevent stickiness by storing your candy in a dry, airtight container.
Experiment with unique flavor and color pairings to match the season or event.
Always use a candy thermometer for accuracy—guessing the temperature can lead to unsatisfactory results.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Hard tack candy pairs beautifully with other treats. Use it to complement a dessert platter featuring cookies, chocolates, and pastries. The candy also works well as a festive garnish for cakes or cupcakes. When wrapped in decorative packaging, these vibrant confections make thoughtful party favors or holiday gifts that everyone will appreciate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use alternative flavoring oils or extracts? Yes, but ensure the substitute can withstand high temperatures without breaking down.
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer? A thermometer is highly recommended for precision, but you can test the candy’s readiness by dropping a small amount into cold water to see if it hardens properly.
How do I fix uneven candy thickness? Work quickly to spread the hot mixture evenly before it cools. A heatproof spatula is helpful for this.
Can this recipe be doubled or halved? Yes, but adjust the size of your baking sheet accordingly to maintain the candy’s thickness.

Hard tack candy is a delightful project that combines simplicity with creativity. Its bold colors and flavors make it a standout treat for any occasion. With this recipe, you have the flexibility to experiment and make it your own. Gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity, and enjoy the process of crafting these vibrant, delicious confections.

Ingredients

½ cup powdered sugar (65 grams)
1 cup water (8 ounces)
1 cup corn syrup (8 ounces)
.125 ounces LorAnn Flavoring Oil
1.75 pounds granulated sugar (about 3 ½ cups)
Food coloring

Instructions

Prepare a large baking sheet, at least 12×17 inches, by lining it with parchment paper. Set this aside for later use.

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup. Heat over medium flame, stirring continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil.

Keep cooking and stirring. If this is your first attempt, maintain the heat at medium. As you gain experience, you may increase the heat slightly, but remember to stir gently and consistently. Patience is key here; achieving the correct temperature is critical for success. Removing it from the heat prematurely will ruin the recipe.

Using a thermometer, monitor the temperature of the sugar mixture carefully. Heat until it reaches 280°F. At this stage, incorporate the food coloring. Add a few drops at a time and mix until you achieve your desired color.

Continue cooking the mixture, ensuring it reaches a temperature between 290°F and 295°F. Avoid rushing this step, as reaching the proper temperature is vital. Once ready, remove the saucepan from the heat and promptly stir in the flavoring oil.

Pour the hot sugar mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out to avoid creating a thick layer. Allow the candy to cool completely, which should take around 30 minutes.

After cooling, use a meat mallet to break the candy into smaller pieces.

Transfer the candy pieces into a resealable bag. Add the powdered sugar and shake until each piece is evenly coated.

Store the finished candy in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly stored, it will remain fresh for several months.