Colorful Taffy
Create your own vibrant and flavorful taffy at home with this simple recipe! Perfect for parties or as gifts, this nostalgic candy-making activity is fun for all ages.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup Can be substituted with honey or agave syrup
- ½ cup unsalted butter Can be replaced with a vegan butter substitute for a vegan option
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract You may use other extracts for different flavors
- as needed Food coloring (various colors)
Equipment
- 1 candy thermometer
- 1 large buttered surface or parchment paper To pour the taffy onto
- optional kitchen gloves To protect hands while kneading food coloring
Instructions
Preparation
- Butter a clean, flat surface or lay down a piece of parchment paper.
- Gather your materials for a smooth process.
Cooking
- In a medium saucepan, mix granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Allow the mixture to heat without stirring until it reaches 250°F (hard ball stage) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat, quickly stir in the butter and vanilla extract until melted and combined.
Coloring and Shaping
- Pour the hot mixture onto your prepared surface.
- Allow it to cool slightly, then divide into sections.
- Add a few drops of food coloring to each section as desired.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands and begin kneading each color until fully incorporated.
- Once cooled to a manageable temperature, stretch and pull the taffy until it becomes smooth and shiny.
- Twist together different colors for a marbled effect.
Wrapping
- Cut the taffy into bite-sized pieces and wrap each piece in wax paper.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
For variations, try different flavor extracts and color combinations. Taffy can be stored at room temperature for several weeks in an airtight container.