There’s something about the gentle melting of cherry Turkish taffy that brings back memories of leisurely afternoons spent in the kitchen, surrounded by the laughter of family. With every pull and stretch of the taffy, you can practically hear the echoes of loved ones sharing stories over a warm table, where love and sweetness reign supreme.
Why make this recipe? Well, cherry Turkish taffy isn’t just candy; it’s a hug from your favorite aunt or a delightful reminder of childhood summers. It’s a kitchen project that invites a little magic, turning sugar, egg whites, and a touch of cherry jam into something truly special. Making this nostalgic treat is an act of love, a way to share joy with those you hold dear.
How to make Cherry Turkish Taffy
Ingredients:
- 1 egg white
- 2 ½ cups sugar
- ½ cup water
- ¼ tsp cornstarch
- 1 cup cherry jam
- Butter
Directions:
First things first, line a trusty large cookie sheet with parchment paper and give it a good buttering on top—this is where the magic happens, so we want it all to slide off just beautifully. In a bowl—whether it’s a sturdy stand mixer or your most beloved mixing bowl—add the egg white and whip it until it gently forms soft peaks. The kind that reminds you of whipped cream on top of mama’s fresh peach pie.
Now, while that’s happening, let’s get a medium-sized stockpot out. In this pot, combine the sugar, water, and cornstarch, making sure to stir it all together until every granule is moistened. Set it over medium heat and watch it as it begins to bubble. With a wet pastry brush, wash down any sugar crystals that might take a vacation on the pot’s walls. Don’t let them stay behind—sugar does love to wander!
Keep cooking until this sweet potion reaches a temperature of 260°F. Now, the real fun starts! Carefully add in your cherry jam, stirring like you’re mixing a family secret into a pot of stew, until everything is melted together, but be cautious—this bubbly mixture has a tendency to rise up and say hello.
Let it heat back to 260°F, and that’s when you’ll take your well-behaved mixer and slowly drizzle the warm cherry syrup into the waiting egg whites. Keep on mixing for about 15 minutes, until the taffy becomes warm and incredibly stiff—it should give you that chewy feel we all adore. Now pour this gorgeous taffy onto your prepared pan, smoothing it out to fill every corner with either a wet spatula or your buttered hands.
Pop that pan in the freezer for about 20 minutes until it firms up. Once it’s good and solid, you can either shatter it into lovely uneven pieces or, if you’re feeling fancy, use cooking shears to cut it into neat squares. And about that bowl full of taffy residue? Just fill it with very hot water and let it sit—like a good Southern meal, it cleans itself up in no time.
How to serve Cherry Turkish Taffy
Gather your loved ones around and break out this nostalgic treat during family gatherings, or even as a sweet surprise for friends. Serve it in a quaint dish or a mason jar tied with a ribbon, radiating love and memories with every piece shared. Don’t forget to savor it slowly, letting the chewy sweetness linger on your tongue while you tell stories of days gone by.
How to store Cherry Turkish Taffy
For those times when your heart isn’t ready to let go of sweet memories, you can store your taffy in an airtight container. It’ll sit kindly on your kitchen counter or in a cool pantry. Make sure it’s wrapped in wax paper if you want to keep those chunks from sticking together, but let’s be honest—it’s going to be so good, you’ll need to remind those around you to save some for later!
Tips to make Cherry Turkish Taffy
- Watch the Temperature: A candy thermometer is your best friend here; it’s important to hit that 260°F mark for the perfect chewy texture.
- Stay Close: Keep an eye on your taffy as it heats up, as it can bubble up rather dramatically—like a happy kid at a birthday party!
- Whip with Love: Be patient while mixing the egg whites—a little extra love in the process does wonders.
Variations
If you fancy a twist, consider experimenting with different jams—strawberry, raspberry, or even a little bit of lemon zest for a tangy kick! Each variation will surely create its own set of fond memories.
FAQs
1. Can I make this taffy without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! You can whip the egg whites by hand with a trusty whisk, but it might take a bit more elbow grease and a loving spirit.
2. How long does the taffy last?
Well, if you can keep from devouring it all in one sitting, cherry Turkish taffy can last for about two to three weeks when stored properly.
3. What if my taffy seems too sticky?
Don’t fret! If it’s sticky while you’re molding it, just a little dusting of powdered sugar or cornstarch on your hands can help work that magic.
Just like the warmth of a family reunion or a pot of homemade soup simmering on the stove, sharing food is about connection. So gather your ingredients, invite a friend or loved one to join, and get ready to wrap your hearts around this lovely cherry Turkish taffy—a sweet treat that transforms any day into a cherished memory.
Cherry Turkish Taffy
Ingredients
Method
- Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper and butter it generously.
- In a bowl, whip the egg white until it forms soft peaks.
- In a medium-sized stockpot, combine sugar, water, and cornstarch, stirring to moisten all granules.
- Set over medium heat and cook, washing down sugar crystals on the pot's walls.
- Cook until the mixture reaches 260°F.
- Carefully stir in the cherry jam until melted and combined.
- Let it heat back to 260°F and then slowly drizzle the warm mixture into the whipped egg whites while mixing.
- Continue to mix for about 15 minutes until the taffy is thick and chewy.
- Pour the taffy onto the prepared pan and smooth it out.
- Freeze for about 20 minutes until firm.
- Break or cut the taffy into pieces for serving.