Clothes Line Candy
Clothes Line Candy is a nostalgic treat combining dates, black walnuts, and a rich caramel base, perfect for those who enjoy chewy, nutty confections with a homemade touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sugar and milk until it forms a soft ball in water.
- Add dates and boil 3 minutes.
- Remove from stove and add remaining ingredients.
- Beat until almost hard.
- Pour into a wet cloth. Hang on clothes line to get cold and hard.
- Cut into slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, chop the dates and walnuts finely before adding them to the mixture. If black walnuts are unavailable, you can substitute with regular walnuts or pecans. To ensure the candy sets properly, make sure the syrup reaches the soft ball stage (234-240°F). If the mixture is too soft, it may not harden correctly on the clothes line.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Clothes Line Candy into bite-sized pieces for easy serving. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. Consider serving it alongside other nostalgic desserts like Saltine Toffee Cookies or Evelyn Wagner's Pecan Pie to create a themed dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Clothes Line Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place small portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until slightly softened. Avoid overheating, as it can alter the candy's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clothes Line Candy contains roughly 663 calories, with 5g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute black walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious. If you're allergic to nuts, consider omitting them entirely or using seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
What should I do if my candy doesn't set properly?
If your candy doesn't set, it might not have reached the correct temperature. You can reheat the mixture gently and try boiling it again until it reaches the soft ball stage. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can also add a bit more sugar during the second heating process.
Can I add flavoring or other ingredients to this candy?
Absolutely! You can incorporate a splash of almond extract or a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor. Dried fruits like cranberries or cherries can also be mixed in for a fruity twist, making it even more unique. Just be mindful of the overall moisture content to ensure it sets correctly.
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).