"Putty" Candy Christmas Treat
Putty Candy Christmas Treat is a nostalgic, nut-studded confection with a chewy texture and sweet vanilla flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings and festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add sugar, corn syrup, butter, and milk to a saucepan.
- Cook slowly, stirring until the mixture cracks in cold water.
- Remove from heat.
- Add nuts, stirring constantly.
- When cool, add vanilla.
- When stiff, turn out on a board covered with cornstarch.
- Knead and mold into loaves.
- Slice when ready to eat.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the perfect texture, use a candy thermometer to check for the hard crack stage, which is around 300°F. If you don't have walnuts or pecans, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a nut-free alternative. For flavor variations, consider adding a splash of almond extract or a hint of cinnamon. Make sure to keep the mixture well-stirred to prevent burning, especially when cooking on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Putty Candy into bite-sized pieces and serve it on a festive platter for holiday gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. For a special touch, consider garnishing with chopped candied cherries or drizzling with melted chocolate. This treat also makes a delightful gift for friends and family during the holiday season.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Putty Candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If the candy becomes too hard, you can soften it by placing it in a sealed bag with a slice of apple for a few hours. Reheat gently in a microwave for a few seconds if it becomes too stiff to slice.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Putty" Candy Christmas Treat contains roughly 1162 calories, with 10g protein, 199g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts and pecans are traditional, you can substitute with almonds, cashews, or even macadamia nuts. Just be mindful that different nuts will impart their unique flavors, which can enhance the overall taste of the candy.
How can I make this recipe more festive?
To add a festive flair to your Putty Candy, consider incorporating seasonal spices like nutmeg or ginger. You could also mix in colorful sprinkles or chopped dried fruits. Additionally, packaging the candy in decorative boxes or bags can make for a lovely holiday gift.
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).