There’s a certain magic that fills the air on chilly afternoons when the spirit of homemade candy beckons you into the kitchen. The warm aroma of melted sugar dances around you, tugging at nostalgic memories of simpler times. As I remember my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, a sweet inspiration strikes — let’s make Kentucky Cream Pull Candy!
Why make this recipe
This charming treat is not only a decadent delight but also a beautiful testament to the art of candy-making. With its smooth, creamy texture and delicate sweetness, Kentucky Cream Pull Candy is a labor of love that invites you to slow down and connect with the process. Plus, there’s something utterly satisfying about pulling sugar into soft, airy candy — it’s a bit like capturing joy in your hands!
How to make Kentucky Cream Pull Candy
Gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this sweet journey. You’ll find that each step, from cooking the sugar to the final pulling, comes together to create something truly special.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter (for greasing hands and surface)
Directions:
- Start by generously buttering a marble slab or a large baking sheet, ensuring you have extra butter ready for your hands to keep the candy from sticking. You’ll also want some scissors handy for the pulling and cutting steps.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely. Once it’s all blended, attach a candy thermometer and stop stirring — we’re about to reach sweet perfection! Cook the mixture until it reaches 260°F (127°C).
- When the candy mixture reaches the right temperature, carefully pour it onto your prepared slab or sheet. Let it cool until it’s just safe to handle — this should take about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Time to get your hands buttery! Generously butter your hands and start pulling the candy, stretching and folding it for 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll see it begin to lighten in color, turning wonderfully satiny and luxurious.
- Once perfect, shape the candy into ½-inch thick ropes and cut them into bite-sized pieces using your buttered scissors. Place your charming candy on wax paper and allow it to firm up at room temperature.
How to serve Kentucky Cream Pull Candy
Serving this candy is as simple as placing it in a beautiful dish or wrapping it as a sweet gift for friends and family. Its soft, creamy texture melts in your mouth, making it the perfect treat for cozy gatherings or evening relaxation sessions with a cup of tea or coffee.
How to store Kentucky Cream Pull Candy
Keep your Kentucky Cream Pull Candy fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature. For added longevity, you can layer the pieces between sheets of wax paper to prevent them from sticking together, ensuring each piece is as delightful as the last!
Tips to make Kentucky Cream Pull Candy
- Make sure to constantly stir the mixture until all the sugar dissolves before you attach the candy thermometer; this step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top after cutting the candy. The salt will contrast beautifully with the sweetness and add depth to each bite.
- Don’t rush the pulling process; it’s meant to be savored! The more you pull, the fluffier and tastier your candy will be.
Variations
While the classic cream flavor is divine on its own, you can also experiment with adding a splash of peppermint extract or crushed nuts for a delightful twist on this traditional recipe.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of sugar?
A: While granulated sugar is recommended for the best results, you can try using brown sugar for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind this may alter the texture slightly!
Q: What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
A: If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the temperature by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water. It should form a firm ball when it’s ready!
Q: How long will the candy last?
A: When stored in an airtight container, Kentucky Cream Pull Candy will last for up to three weeks!
Embrace the sweet traditions of the past and unleash your creativity in the kitchen as you craft this delightful candy. As you pull and shape, take a moment to enjoy the process – a simple and precious reminder to indulge in the beautiful moments that life has to offer. Happy candy making!
Kentucky Cream Pull Candy
Ingredients
Method
- Generously butter a marble slab or a large baking sheet, and have extra butter ready for your hands to prevent sticking.
- Gather scissors for the pulling and cutting steps.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Once dissolved, attach a candy thermometer and stop stirring. Cook until the mixture reaches 260°F (127°C).
- Carefully pour the mixture onto your prepared slab or sheet and let it cool for 10 to 15 minutes until it's safe to handle.
- Butter your hands and begin pulling the candy, stretching and folding it for 10 to 15 minutes until it lightens in color and turns satiny.
- Shape the candy into ½-inch thick ropes and cut them into bite-sized pieces using the buttered scissors.
- Place the candy on wax paper to firm up at room temperature.