Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red food coloring
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Candy molds (optional)
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves.
2. Once sugar dissolves, stop stirring and insert candy thermometer. Cook until mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
3. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract and a few drops of red food coloring.
4. Pour mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into candy molds.
5. Let cool completely before breaking into pieces or removing from molds.
6. Dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Cook until mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage)
Serving size:
- Makes about 1 pound of candy
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 60 per serving (1 piece)
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Light corn syrup can be substituted with honey or agave nectar.
- Peppermint extract can be substituted with other flavors such as vanilla or almond.
Variations:
- Use different food coloring to create different colors of candy.
- Add crushed candy canes or other candy pieces for texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Use caution when working with hot sugar mixture.
- Work quickly when pouring mixture into molds or onto baking sheet.
- Dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Storage instructions:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- N/A
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a candy dish or jar.
Garnishes:
- Crushed candy canes or other candy pieces.
Pairings:
- Hot cocoa or other warm beverages.
Suggested side dishes:
- N/A
Troubleshooting advice:
- If candy is too hard, reduce cooking time slightly.
- If candy is too soft, increase cooking time slightly.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot sugar mixture.
Food history:
- Peppermint stick candy has been a popular holiday treat for over a century.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet and minty.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a holiday treat or gift.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
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Taste: Sweet, Minty, Refreshing, Tangy