Hawaiian Candy
Hawaiian Candy offers a sweet, tropical treat with caramelized sugar, pineapple, and nuts, perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a nostalgic dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, cream, butter, and powdered ginger in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and cook to soft ball stage, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and cool to lukewarm.
- Add vanilla and beat until creamy.
- Fold in crushed pineapple and nuts.
- Spread mixture on an oiled surface to harden.
- Once hardened, break into pieces and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cream is at room temperature before combining with the sugars. If you want a slightly spicier flavor, consider substituting ground cinnamon for half the powdered ginger. To save time, use canned crushed pineapple, ensuring it's well-drained to prevent excess moisture. Always keep stirring while cooking to avoid burning; this is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Hawaiian Candy makes a delightful treat on its own but pairs beautifully with Southern Bread Pudding for a delicious dessert spread. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast. It also makes an excellent addition to gift baskets or party platters.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Hawaiian Candy in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its texture. Avoid refrigerating, as this can make the candy too hard. If you prefer a softer candy, you can briefly microwave a piece for 5-10 seconds to soften it before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Candy contains roughly 1518 calories, with 0g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 121g fat.
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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple! Just make sure to crush it and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the candy's texture. Fresh pineapple will add a brighter flavor to the candy, enhancing the tropical experience.
What can I use if I don't have nuts?
If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer not to use them, you can substitute with seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds, for added crunch. Alternatively, you can simply omit the nuts altogether for a nut-free version that still retains its delicious flavor and texture.
How long does it take for the candy to harden?
Typically, the candy will take about 1-2 hours to harden at room temperature. However, if your kitchen is particularly warm or humid, it may take longer. To speed up the process, you can place it in a cool, dry area, but avoid the fridge to prevent it from becoming too hard.
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).