D-D'S Hard Candy
Sweet, crunchy hard candies with a rich caramel flavor that crackles in the mouth, ideal for homemade treats, gifts, or fun kitchen projects for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, light corn syrup, and water in a large saucepan.
- Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring to a boil without stirring until the temperature reaches 310°F or hard, brittle threads form in cold water.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in flavoring and coloring after boiling ceases.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Allow to cool and then break into pieces.
- Use a hammer over wax paper to break into smaller pieces if needed.
- Shake the pieces in a bag with powdered sugar.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the sugar mixture reaches the correct temperature, use a candy thermometer for accuracy. If you don't have Lorann flavoring, you can substitute with any high-quality extract, but reduce the quantity slightly to avoid overpowering the candy. Be careful when handling the hot syrup to prevent burns, and make sure to work in a well-ventilated area if using strong flavors.
Serving Suggestions
These hard candies can be enjoyed on their own or used as colorful decorations for desserts. They pair beautifully with Kooky Cake or can be given as gifts during holidays. Consider serving them alongside a warm beverage for a delightful treat. For a fun twist, mix different flavors to create a variety pack.
Storage & Reheating
Store the hard candy in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it from becoming sticky. Place layers of wax paper between the pieces to prevent sticking together. Avoid refrigerating, as moisture can affect the texture. The candy should keep well for several weeks if stored properly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of D-D'S Hard Candy contains roughly 550 calories, with 1g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% 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
What if my candy is too sticky after cooling?
If your candy turns out sticky, it may not have reached the proper temperature. To salvage it, reheat the candy mixture gently until it reaches 310°F again, then allow it to cool and harden once more. Make sure to store it with powdered sugar to absorb moisture.
Can I use natural flavorings instead of Lorann?
Yes, you can use natural flavorings, but keep in mind that they may have a less intense flavor compared to Lorann products. Adjust the amount to taste, and remember that some natural flavors might alter the color of the candy.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
The ingredients in this recipe are typically vegan-friendly; however, ensure that the corn syrup and flavoring used are free from animal products. You can also explore vegan recipes for candy to find alternatives that use different sweeteners or thickeners.
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).