Easy Sesame Candies
Crunchy, nutty sesame candies with a sweet, caramelized flavor profile, perfect for snacking or gifting, appealing to those who love simple, homemade confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease an 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking pan.
- In a 1-quart saucepan, stir together the corn syrup, sugar, and margarine.
- Stirring occasionally, bring to a full rolling boil over medium heat and boil for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the toasted sesame seeds.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
- Allow to cool, then remove from the pan and break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark Karo corn syrup instead of light. If you don't have Mazola margarine, you can substitute with unsalted butter or a vegan butter alternative for a similar texture. Make sure to keep stirring the mixture while it boils to prevent it from burning. You can also experiment by adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of vanilla extract for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
These sesame candies are great as a sweet treat on their own or can be served alongside a cup of Cafe Brulot for a delightful pairing. They also make fantastic gifts when wrapped in decorative cellophane. For a unique twist, try incorporating them into a dessert platter with fresh fruits or alongside a scoop of ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sesame candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating, as this can make them chewy. If the candies become sticky, you can reheat them gently in the microwave for a few seconds to soften before breaking them apart again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Sesame Candies contains roughly 121 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% 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 raw sesame seeds instead of toasted?
While you can use raw sesame seeds, toasting them enhances their flavor and crunch, which is essential for this recipe. If you prefer raw seeds, consider toasting them in a dry skillet until golden brown before adding them to the mixture.
How do I know when the syrup is ready?
The syrup is ready when it reaches a full rolling boil and continues to bubble vigorously for the full 5 minutes. You can also test by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball. Be careful not to overcook, as this can lead to hard candies.
Can I add flavors like vanilla or chocolate?
Yes, you can add flavors to the mixture! A teaspoon of vanilla extract added just before spreading the mixture into the pan can enhance the overall taste. For a chocolate version, consider melting a little dark chocolate and drizzling it over the cooled candies before cutting them into pieces.
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).