Pin Candy

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Pin Candy is a sweet, crunchy treat with rich caramel flavors and nutty texture, perfect for those who enjoy nostalgic confections or homemade candies.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup rich milk (whole)
  • 2/3 cup light syrup
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar
  • 1 quart chopped nuts
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla

Instructions

  1. Beat and cook together the first five ingredients until a soft ball forms in cold water.
  2. Set aside to cool.
  3. Stir well until light in color.
  4. Add vanilla and chopped nuts.
  5. Pour onto buttered plates and cut while warm.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider substituting the rich milk with evaporated milk. Ensure that you use a candy thermometer to check for the soft ball stage while cooking for the best results. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the chopped nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Pin Candy can be enjoyed on its own or used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or cake. It pairs beautifully with Cool Rise Sweet Dough for a delightful treat. Consider serving it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Pin Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place small portions in the microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly. Avoid refrigerating, as this can cause the candy to become too hard.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pin Candy contains roughly 376 calories, with 0g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value).

376 kcal 19% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.3g 1% DV
Total Fat 0.1g
Carbs 84.1g 31% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 82.7g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 385.8mg 17% DV
Potassium 148mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 0mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.8mcg
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 30.7mg 2% DV
Iron 3.3mg 19% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 types of nuts?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts based on your preference. Just ensure they are chopped to similar sizes for even distribution in the candy.

What if my candy doesn't set properly?

If your Pin Candy is too soft, it might not have reached the soft ball stage while cooking. You can return it to the heat and cook a bit longer, testing frequently until the desired consistency is achieved.

Can I add flavors other than vanilla?

Yes, feel free to get creative! You can incorporate flavors like almond extract or even coconut extract for a different twist. Just remember to adjust the amount to prevent overpowering the candy.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →