Clark Bar Peanut Butter Candy
Creamy peanut butter candies with a crisp caramel-like coating, offering rich nutty flavor and a satisfying chew. Perfect for peanut lovers and easy to share.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread peanut butter on a small cookie sheet.
- In a saucepan, boil Karo syrup, sugar, and hot water to 300°F.
- Pour the hot syrup mixture over the peanut butter and stir well.
- Pour the mixture onto another cookie sheet and let it harden.
- Once hard, cut into strips and pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider using creamy peanut butter instead of chunky. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute part of it with a sugar alternative, but keep in mind that this may alter the final texture. Always monitor the temperature of the syrup carefully to ensure it reaches exactly 300°F for the perfect hard candy consistency. This recipe can also be adapted for various flavors by adding vanilla or chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
These Clark Bar-style candies make a delightful treat on their own, but they can also be served alongside coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with Jane Anne's Broccoli as part of a balanced meal, providing a nice contrast to savory dishes. For a fun dessert platter, consider including other homemade candies or cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover candy in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its firmness. If you live in a humid area, consider refrigerating it to prevent stickiness. For best results, avoid stacking the pieces directly on top of each other unless separated by wax paper. Reheat gently in the microwave if it becomes too hard to cut.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clark Bar Peanut Butter Candy contains roughly 1893 calories, with 49g protein, 242g carbohydrates, and 98g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (98% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and iron (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1098mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of syrup instead of Karo?
While Karo syrup is preferred for its consistency and sweetness, you can use light corn syrup as a substitute. However, avoid using dark corn syrup, as it will alter the flavor and color of the candy. If you're looking for a more natural option, maple syrup can work, but it may require careful monitoring of the cooking time.
What should I do if the candy doesn't harden?
If your candy doesn't harden, it may not have reached the proper temperature during cooking. Reheat the mixture gently, ensuring it reaches 300°F again, then pour it over the peanut butter. If it still doesn’t set, try adding a bit more sugar and reheating; this can help achieve the desired texture.
How long does this candy last?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, this peanut butter candy can last for several weeks. If you notice any stickiness or changes in texture, it's best to consume it sooner rather than later. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying.
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).