Bird Candy(Really)
Bird Candy is a nutritious, easy-to-make treat with suet, cornmeal, sugar, and peanut butter, perfect for attracting and feeding wild birds in your yard.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use equal parts of ground suet, cornmeal, and sugar.
- Add 1/2 part water and cook for 20 minutes.
- Add several tablespoons of peanut butter.
- Pour into a greased pan.
- Allow to cool.
- Cut into squares and put in mesh bags.
- Hang in a tree for birds to enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use high-quality ground suet, as it provides the best binding and flavor. If you can't find suet, you can substitute with lard or a vegetable shortening for a vegetarian option. Ensure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to avoid clumping. If you're in a hurry, you can skip cooking and simply mix everything and let it set in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
Cut the bird candy into squares and place them in mesh bags or hang them directly from tree branches. You can also use a suet feeder for easy access. This treat pairs beautifully with a variety of bird seeds for an enhanced feeding experience. Consider making multiple batches to attract different bird species throughout the season.
Storage & Reheating
Once the bird candy has cooled and set, store it in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. If you have leftovers, they can be kept for up to a month. Avoid refrigeration as it may become too hard. To rehydrate slightly, simply leave at room temperature for a short time before using.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bird Candy(Really) contains roughly 24 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 2g 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
Can I use other types of nut butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, you can use any nut or seed butter, such as almond or sunflower butter. Just ensure that it has a similar consistency to peanut butter for optimal mixing and binding. This can also cater to those with nut allergies by using seed-based alternatives.
How do I know when the bird candy is cool enough to cut?
The bird candy is cool enough to cut when it has reached room temperature and is firm to the touch. If it's still soft, allow it to sit longer until it hardens. This typically takes about 30-60 minutes after pouring it into the greased pan.
Is it safe to feed birds if I use processed ingredients?
It's best to avoid using highly processed sugars or artificial ingredients, as these can be harmful to birds. Stick to natural sugars and fresh ingredients to ensure that your homemade bird candy is safe and healthy for your feathered friends.
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).