French Chewing
French Chewing is a nostalgic candy with a chewy, taffy-like texture, infused with sweet flavors and a hint of creaminess, perfect for nostalgic treats or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, cream, and Karo syrup in a large, heavy pan.
- Cook to soft ball stage.
- Dissolve Knox gelatine in 1/2 cup very warm water. Add to mixture.
- Add paraffin.
- Cook to hard ball stage.
- Cool in greased pan.
- When cool enough, pull (as in taffy) with greased hands until color changes.
- When color changes, lay on waxed paper.
- Crack with a knife handle into desired sizes.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect texture for French Chewing, ensure your sugar mixture reaches the soft ball stage before adding gelatin. If you don’t have paraffin, you can substitute with beeswax, but note it may alter the flavor slightly. For a flavored version, consider adding a few drops of vanilla or almond extract once the mixture is removed from heat.
Serving Suggestions
French Chewing makes a delightful treat on its own or can be served alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee. Consider pairing it with a slice of German Coffee Cake(Naff Kuchen) for a sweet afternoon snack. It also makes a unique addition to gift baskets during the holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover French Chewing in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its chewy texture. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause the candy to harden. If the candy becomes too hard, you can gently reheat it in a microwave for a few seconds to soften.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Chewing contains roughly 170 calories, with 4g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value). 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
What can I do if my French Chewing doesn't set properly?
If your French Chewing doesn't set, it may not have reached the hard ball stage. You can reheat the mixture gently and cook it a bit longer, checking the temperature with a candy thermometer until it reaches the correct stage before cooling again.
Can I add flavors or colors to the French Chewing?
Yes, you can add flavor extracts, like vanilla or almond, to the mixture before it cools. For colors, use food coloring after the mixture is removed from heat. Just be cautious with the amounts to avoid altering the texture.
How long does French Chewing last?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, French Chewing can last for several weeks. However, it's best enjoyed within the first two weeks for optimal freshness and chewiness.
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).