Chewy Licorice
Chewy licorice features a rich, sweet flavor with a hint of anise, perfect for those who enjoy homemade candies with a classic, chewy texture and aromatic taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sugar, Eagle Brand, white Karo, salt, and butter to the firm ball stage at 235°F, stirring constantly.
- Add anise flavoring and coloring to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a dripper pan and let it cool.
- Cut the cooled candy into square pieces and wrap each in wax paper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a perfect chewy texture, ensure your candy mixture reaches the firm ball stage at 235°F; using a candy thermometer will help. If you want a milder flavor, consider using half the amount of anise flavoring or substituting it with vanilla extract. Additionally, if you don't have Eagle Brand, you can use any sweetened condensed milk as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Chewy Licorice can be enjoyed as a delightful treat on its own or served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, place them in a decorative dish during gatherings or pair them with desserts like Hershey Bar Pudding for a sweet spread. They make great homemade gifts when wrapped in colorful paper.
Storage & Reheating
Store the wrapped licorice in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If the candy becomes hard, you can soften it by placing a slice of bread in the container for a day. Avoid refrigeration, as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Licorice contains roughly 199 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 20g 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 can I do if my licorice doesn't set properly?
If your licorice is too soft, it may not have cooked long enough. You can reheat the mixture and cook it a bit longer to reach the firm ball stage. If it's too hard, simply let it rest at room temperature for a while before cutting.
Can I use different flavorings instead of anise?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavorings! Options like peppermint or wintergreen can add a refreshing twist. Just keep in mind that the amount may vary, so start with a smaller quantity and adjust to taste.
How do I make the licorice more colorful?
To add color, simply incorporate a few drops of food coloring into the mixture after adding the anise flavoring. Mix well to achieve a uniform color. You can choose any color that fits your occasion or just go with the classic dark shade for traditional licorice.
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).