Swirl Saltwater Taffy
This colorful and chewy treat brings nostalgia with every bite and is easy to make at home. Customize it with your favorite flavors and colors for a fun experience!
Ingredients
For the Taffy Mixture
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon flavor extract (e.g., vanilla, peppermint) Choose your favorite flavor
- to taste food coloring Your choice of colors
- as needed cornstarch For dusting
Equipment
- 1 candy thermometer
- 1 greased baking sheet or parchment paper
- 1 sturdy spatula
Instructions
Cooking the Mixture
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, water, and salt.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Attach the candy thermometer and bring the mixture to a boil.
Monitoring the Temperature
- Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it reaches 260°F (hard ball stage).
- Remove from heat immediately.
Flavoring and Coloring
- Divide the hot mixture into two bowls.
- Add your chosen flavor extract and a few drops of food coloring to each bowl. Stir quickly to blend.
Cooling and Pulling
- Once slightly cooled, let the taffy sit until it’s manageable but still warm.
- Butter your hands and begin pulling one color of taffy until it becomes shiny and pliable.
Swirling
- Do the same with the second color, then gently twist the two colors together.
- Pull and fold until you create beautiful swirls.
Shaping and Setting
- Form the taffy into a log or cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Dust with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
Notes
Experiment with different extracts for unique flavors. For a chewier taffy, cook to a slightly lower temperature. Use multiple colors for a rainbow effect. Store individual pieces wrapped in wax paper.