Hard Candy Recipe Without Corn Syrup Or Cream Of Tartar
Hard candy is a classic treat that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. Whether it's clear or colorful, lollipops or rock candy, hard candy is always a crowd-pleaser. However, many traditional hard candy recipes call for corn syrup and cream of tartar, which may not be easily available or desirable for those who are looking for a healthier alternative. If you are in search of a hard candy recipe that is without corn syrup or cream of tartar, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will share with you a delicious and easy-to-follow recipe that will yield tasty and satisfying hard candy without the use of corn syrup or cream of tartar.
The Ingredients You'll Need
The key to making hard candy without corn syrup or cream of tartar is to use an alternative sweetener that has a similar consistency and texture. In this recipe, we will be using honey and lemon juice to create a thick and syrupy base for the candy. Here are the ingredients you'll need:
- 1 cup of honey
- 1/2 cup of water
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
The Directions to Follow
Now that you have gathered all the ingredients, it's time to start making the hard candy. Follow these simple steps:
- Combine the honey, water, and lemon juice in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the honey has dissolved.
- Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it comes to a boil, stop stirring and let it boil until it reaches 300 degrees Fahrenheit on a candy thermometer. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the baking soda, butter, vanilla extract, and food coloring (if using). The mixture will foam up, so be careful when stirring.
- Quickly pour the mixture into a greased candy mold or onto a greased baking sheet. Let it cool and harden for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Once the candy has hardened, remove it from the mold or break it into small pieces with a hammer or rolling pin.
- Store the hard candy in an airtight container at room temperature.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This hard candy recipe is not only free of corn syrup and cream of tartar, but it's also easy to make and yields delicious candy that can be customized to your taste preferences. The use of honey and lemon juice gives the candy a unique flavor and aroma that is both sweet and tangy. Plus, you can use any color of food coloring to create a vibrant and eye-catching candy that will impress your friends and family.
The Nutritional Benefits of Honey
In addition to its sweet taste, honey also has several nutritional benefits that make it a great alternative to corn syrup. Honey is rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial properties that can help boost your immune system and soothe sore throats. It also contains vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium, and potassium, that can support overall health and wellbeing. When consumed in moderation, honey can be a healthy and delicious addition to your diet.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make hard candy without corn syrup or cream of tartar, you can indulge in this classic treat without any guilt or worry. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create homemade hard candy that is tasty, healthy, and customizable. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet rewards of your labor?