Pull Candy

Cuisine: American

Pull candy is a classic homemade treat known for its chewy, glossy texture and rich caramel flavor. Perfect for those who enjoy handcrafted confections, it offers a delightful experience of pulling and stretching the sugary mixture to develop its smooth, glossy finish. Great for sharing with family and friends.

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Ingredients

  • 3 c. white sugar
  • 2 c. water
  • 1 c. brown sugar, packed
  • 1 stick butter

Instructions

  1. Put the sugar, water, and brown sugar in the cooker and bring to a boil until it reaches 240°F.
  2. Add the butter and continue boiling until the temperature reaches 260°F.
  3. Pour the hot mixture onto a buttered marble slab.
  4. Pull the mixture until it becomes glossy and pliable.

Tips & Substitutions

To achieve the perfect pull candy texture, ensure that you accurately monitor the temperature with a candy thermometer; 240°F is crucial for the initial boil. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar and a little molasses for a similar flavor. For a fun twist, consider adding flavors like vanilla or almond extract after reaching 260°F.

Serving Suggestions

Pull candy makes a delightful treat on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with Candied Pecans for a sweet snack platter. Consider serving it alongside a warm beverage or as a fun addition to gift boxes. For added flair, you can cut it into fun shapes or wrap it in colorful cellophane for special occasions.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover pull candy in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent it from becoming sticky. If it does get sticky, lightly dust with powdered sugar to help separate the pieces. Reheat gently in a microwave for a few seconds if it hardens too much, but be cautious not to overheat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pull Candy contains roughly 2185 calories, with 0g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 180g fat.

2185 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.1g
Total Fat 180g 100% DV
Carbs 146g 53% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 144.6g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 35.1mg 2% DV
Potassium 160.2mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 540mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 105.9mg 8% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
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

What should I do if my candy isn't pulling properly?

If your candy isn’t pulling and remains hard, it may not have reached the right temperature or may have cooked too long. Ensure you reach 260°F and pull the candy while it's still warm and pliable. If it cools too much, it will become difficult to work with.

Can I add flavors or colors to my pull candy?

Absolutely! You can add a few drops of food coloring or flavor extracts like vanilla or peppermint after the butter is added and before pouring onto the slab. Just remember to mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavor and color throughout the candy.

How can I tell when the candy is ready to be pulled?

The candy is ready to be pulled when it reaches 260°F, and it should be bubbly and thick. To test, take a small amount and drop it into cold water; if it forms a soft ball, it's ready. Ensure to act quickly once it cools for the best pulling results.

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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