Molasses Candy

Cuisine: American

Rich molasses candy with crunchy black walnuts and vanilla, offering a sweet, nutty flavor. Perfect for those who enjoy chewy, homemade confections with bold tastes.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. molasses
  • 1 c. sugar
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • pinch of baking soda
  • 3 c. black walnuts, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the molasses and sugar together until when dropped in water, the mixture forms a ball.
  2. Stir in a pinch of baking soda.
  3. Add chopped black walnuts.
  4. Pour into a greased cookie sheet and let cool.
  5. Break into pieces when cooled.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure the molasses and sugar are thoroughly combined before cooking. If you can't find black walnuts, regular walnuts can be substituted, although the flavor will differ. To test the candy's readiness, use a candy thermometer to reach the hard ball stage at 250°F. If you prefer a sweeter version, increase the sugar slightly to balance the molasses' robust flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This molasses candy makes a delightful treat on its own but can also be served alongside strong coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. It pairs beautifully with Homemade Apple Butter as a spread for toast or biscuits. For a fun twist, consider crumbling the candy over vanilla ice cream for a sweet topping.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover molasses candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To prevent the pieces from sticking together, you can layer them with parchment paper. If you want to enjoy them warm again, briefly microwave them for 10-15 seconds before serving, but be careful not to overheat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Molasses Candy contains roughly 1403 calories, with 46g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 107g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (92% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 18g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1403 kcal 70% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 45.8g 92% DV
Total Fat 107.2g 100% DV
Carbs 54.1g 20% DV
Fiber 17.5g 63% DV
Sugar 10.5g 21% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 362.3mg 16% DV
Potassium 1344.9mg 29% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3.6mcg
Vitamin C 46.6mg 52% DV
Calcium 147.8mg 11% DV
Iron 6.5mg 36% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Tree nuts

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 make this candy without black walnuts?

Yes, you can use regular walnuts or even pecans as a substitute for black walnuts. While the flavor will change slightly, both options will still provide a nice crunch and complement the sweetness of the molasses.

How can I tell when my candy is ready to pour?

The candy is ready when it reaches the hard ball stage, which is about 250°F on a candy thermometer. Alternatively, you can drop a small amount into cold water; if it forms a ball that holds its shape, it's ready to pour.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this molasses candy is suitable for vegan diets as it contains no animal products. The ingredients are all plant-based, making it a great option for those following vegan recipes.

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).

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