Jaw Breaks
Jaw breaks are crunchy, sweet candies with a hint of cinnamon and red food coloring, perfect for satisfying a craving or sharing with friends during festivities.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, Karo syrup, and water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil; cook until it reaches 325°F (hard crack) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat; add red food coloring and cinnamon flavoring.
- Mix well without scraping the sides of the pan.
- Pour onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Let harden enough to cut with scissors, approximately 3 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure your candy thermometer is calibrated for accuracy, as the exact temperature is crucial for achieving the hard crack stage. If you don't have red food coloring, you can use other colors or omit it entirely for a clear jaw breaker. Experiment with different flavorings like vanilla or peppermint to create unique variations. Use oil flavoring sparingly, as it can be potent.
Serving Suggestions
These jaw breaks make a fun party treat and are great for Halloween or movie nights. Serve them alongside popcorn or homemade candy for a delightful snack spread. Pair with a refreshing beverage like lemonade or iced tea to balance the sweetness. For a creative twist, consider using them as decor on cupcakes or cakes.
Storage & Reheating
Store jaw breaks in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming sticky. Avoid humidity, as it can affect the texture. If you need to reheat, you can briefly warm them in a microwave on low power, but be cautious not to melt them.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jaw Breaks contains roughly 1089 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% 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 different flavors instead of cinnamon?
Yes, you can substitute the cinnamon oil with other flavors such as vanilla, peppermint, or even fruit extracts like lemon or strawberry. Just ensure the substitute is also oil-based to maintain the consistency of the candy.
What if I don't have a candy thermometer?
If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can test the sugar mixture by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms hard, brittle threads, it has reached the hard crack stage. However, for best results, a thermometer is recommended for accuracy.
How long do jaw breaks last?
Jaw breaks can last for several weeks if stored properly in an airtight container. However, their texture may change over time, so it's best to consume them within a couple of weeks for optimal crunchiness.
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).