Introduction
Butterscotch hard candy is a classic treat that delights the senses with its rich, buttery flavor and satisfying crunch. Making this sweet confection at home is not only rewarding but also easy and fun! Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion, gifting to loved ones, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The caramel-like essence of butterscotch infused with a hint of salt creates a perfect balance that will transport you back to childhood. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your candy-making skills as you whip up a batch of delicious butterscotch hard candy that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Butterscotch Hard Candy:
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this candy accessible for everyone.
- Rich Flavor: The deep, buttery taste of butterscotch offers a nostalgic sweetness.
- Customizable: You can easily add flavors or colors to make it your own.
- Perfect for Gifting: Beautiful homemade candies are great for sharing.
- Fun Activity: Perfect for a weekend project or family bonding time.
Materials
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Candy thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oil for greasing
Full Step-by-Step
Preparing the Baking Sheet
- Line the Baking Sheet: Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the candy from sticking once it cools.
- Grease the Paper: Lightly grease the parchment paper with oil to ensure easy removal of the candy.
Cooking the Candy Mixture
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter completely.
- Add Sugars and Syrup: Stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Heat the Mixture: Attach the candy thermometer to the saucepan, ensuring it does not touch the bottom. Allow the mixture to come to a boil.
- Reach the Right Temperature: Cook until the temperature reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Adding Flavor
- Remove from Heat: Once at temperature, remove the saucepan from heat.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract quickly, as it may bubble up.
Pouring and Cooling
- Pour onto Baking Sheet: Carefully pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread Evenly: Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, but be cautious—it’s very hot!
- Let Cool: Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature; this may take about an hour.
Cutting the Candy
- Score the Candy: Once cooled, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to score the candy into squares or rectangles.
- Break Apart: After scoring, break the pieces apart for individual servings.
Tips & Variations
- Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding different flavor extracts like almond or maple.
- Colorful Candy: Add food coloring to the mixture before pouring it onto the baking sheet for a fun visual twist.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate finely chopped nuts into the mixture for an extra crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but it may alter the final taste slightly. If using salted butter, consider reducing the additional salt.
2. What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
Try the cold water test: drop a bit of the mixture into cold water. If it forms a hard ball, it’s ready.
3. How should I store the butterscotch hard candy?
Keep the candy in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It can last for several weeks.
4. Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can use plant-based butter and swap light corn syrup with agave syrup for a vegan version.
Suggestions
- Gift Ideas: Wrap pieces in decorative cellophane for elegant gift options.
- Pairing Suggestions: This candy pairs beautifully with tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
Final Thoughts
Making butterscotch hard candy at home is a rewarding experience that is sure to bring joy to your taste buds and those you share it with. Feel free to modify the recipe to suit your palate and share your creations! We’d love to hear about your experiences, so please leave a comment or share your version of this delicious candy!
Butterscotch Hard Candy
Ingredients
For the Candy
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Preparation
- Candy thermometer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oil for greasing
Instructions
Preparing the Baking Sheet
- Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the candy from sticking once it cools.
- Lightly grease the parchment paper with oil to ensure easy removal of the candy.
Cooking the Candy Mixture
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter completely.
- Stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Attach the candy thermometer to the saucepan, ensuring it does not touch the bottom. Allow the mixture to come to a boil.
- Cook until the temperature reaches 300°F (hard crack stage), stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Adding Flavor
- Once at temperature, remove the saucepan from heat.
- Stir in the vanilla extract quickly, as it may bubble up.
Pouring and Cooling
- Carefully pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly, being cautious as it’s very hot.
- Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature; this may take about an hour.
Cutting the Candy
- Once cooled, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to score the candy into squares or rectangles.
- After scoring, break the pieces apart for individual servings.