Atlantic City Salt Water Taffy
Sweet, chewy salt water taffy with a classic vanilla flavor, perfect for candy lovers and those wanting a nostalgic treat or homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar and cornstarch in a large saucepan.
- Add syrup, butter, water, and salt to the saucepan.
- Cook rapidly until the mixture forms a hard ball in cold water.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly buttered shallow pan.
- Let stand undisturbed until cool enough to handle.
- Sprinkle vanilla over the candy.
- Pull the candy until it becomes white and glossy.
- Lay on waxed paper in a long rope and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, ensuring the mixture reaches the hard ball stage (around 250°F). If you don't have corn syrup, you can substitute with honey or agave syrup, though it may alter the flavor slightly. Make sure to butter your pan well to prevent sticking and handle the candy with greased hands while pulling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Atlantic City Salt Water Taffy as a nostalgic treat at parties or as a fun dessert for kids. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Marie'S Oatmeal Goodies for a sweet snack platter. For a themed gathering, consider presenting it alongside other classic American recipes or as a fun addition to a candy buffet.
Storage & Reheating
Store the taffy in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its chewiness. To prevent it from sticking together, you can layer pieces with wax paper. Avoid refrigeration, as it can alter the texture. If you have leftovers, they should be consumed within a week for optimal freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Atlantic City Salt Water Taffy contains roughly 87 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.
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
Can I flavor the taffy with something other than vanilla?
Yes, you can customize the flavor by adding extracts like peppermint, almond, or even fruit flavors. Just be cautious with the amount; start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to taste. This allows for a variety of taffy flavors to suit your preference.
What should I do if the taffy doesn't set properly?
If the taffy is too soft, it may not have reached the hard ball stage during cooking. You can return it to the heat and cook it a bit longer, testing it again in cold water. However, if it sets too hard, you can soften it by warming it slightly in the microwave.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this taffy vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Ensure that your corn syrup is vegan-friendly, as most brands are. The recipe can be adapted easily without sacrificing taste.
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).