An "Old Time" Lemon Taffy
Old Time Lemon Taffy offers a classic, brittle treat with a tangy lemon flavor, perfect for candy lovers and nostalgic dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients at once in a pan and cook to a hard-ball stage, tested in ice cold water.
- When cooked sufficiently, add 1 teaspoon lemon extract.
- Stir just enough to blend in.
- Immediately pour on buttered plates to cool.
- This needs no stretching, but it should be very hard and brittle.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your pan is large enough to prevent boiling over while cooking the taffy. If you don't have lemon extract, you can substitute it with fresh lemon juice, but reduce the amount slightly. Make sure to test the hard-ball stage accurately; using a candy thermometer can help achieve the perfect consistency. Consider pairing the taffy with a cup of tea for a delightful treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemon taffy as a sweet treat after dinner or as a nostalgic snack during gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea, enhancing the citrus flavors. Consider offering it alongside other sweets, such as Polish Teacakes, for a delightful dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover taffy in an airtight container at room temperature. To keep it from sticking, separate layers with parchment paper. If the taffy becomes too hard, you can soften it slightly in a warm environment, but avoid microwaving as it may become too sticky.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of An "Old Time" Lemon Taffy contains roughly 534 calories, with 2g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 31g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my taffy is too soft?
If your taffy doesn't reach the hard-ball stage, it will remain soft. You can re-cook it by placing it back in a pan with a little water and heating it until it reaches the desired consistency. Remember to test often to avoid overcooking.
Can I add flavors other than lemon?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other extracts like vanilla, orange, or mint to create unique flavors. Just be sure to adjust the quantity according to the strength of the extract you choose.
How do I know when the taffy is done cooking?
The taffy is done when it reaches the hard-ball stage, which is approximately 250°F (121°C). To test, drop a small amount of syrup into cold water; it should form a firm ball that holds its shape. A candy thermometer can help ensure accuracy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).