Description
Kentucky Cream Pull Candy
Description:
Looking for the perfect homemade gift?
Kentucky Cream Pull Candy is a timeless treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Creamy, rich, and full of sweetness, this recipe is a gift of love straight from your kitchen!
Ingredients:
2 cups sugar
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup corn syrup
1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
Heat sugar, cream, and syrup, stirring occasionally until dissolved.
Boil to 260°F and stir in vanilla.
Pour onto a greased surface, pull, and shape into pieces. Perfect for gift boxes!
#SweetGifts
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare your tools: Grease a large marble slab, baking sheet, or heatproof countertop with butter. Also, butter your hands and a pair of kitchen scissors. Have a candy thermometer ready.
2. Combine and dissolve: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 2 cups sugar, 1 cup heavy cream, and ½ cup corn syrup. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture begins to boil.
3. Cook to temperature: Once boiling, attach the candy thermometer. Cook without stirring until the mixture reaches exactly 260°F (the hard-ball stage). This is critical for the correct texture.
4. Add flavor and cool: Remove from heat immediately. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour the hot candy onto your greased surface. Let it cool just enough to handle, about 5-10 minutes.
5. Pull the candy: Butter your hands thoroughly. Begin pulling the warm candy mass, stretching it out, folding it back on itself, and pulling again. Continue for 5-10 minutes until it becomes opaque, light in color, and has a satiny sheen.
6. Shape and cut: As the candy firms up, pull it into long, ½-inch thick ropes. Use buttered scissors to snip the rope into 1-inch pieces. Let the pieces cool completely on parchment paper.
Serving Suggestions
This candy is a classic confection perfect for special occasions. Package pieces in small cellophane bags tied with ribbon for charming party favors. Arrange an assortment in a decorative tin for a heartfelt holiday gift. For serving at home, place a bowl of the candies alongside after-dinner coffee or as a sweet treat with afternoon tea.
How-to Summary
To make Kentucky Cream Pull Candy, dissolve sugar, cream, and corn syrup. Boil to 260°F, add vanilla, then pour onto a greased surface. Once cool enough to handle, butter your hands and pull the candy repeatedly until it lightens in color and becomes opaque. Finally, pull into ropes, snip into pieces, and let cool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
No. Heavy cream (with 36-40% fat) is essential for the correct rich texture and to prevent the candy from becoming grainy. Lower-fat alternatives will not work.
Why is my candy too hard or too soft?
This is almost always a temperature issue. A soft, sticky candy didn’t reach 260°F. A hard, brittle candy was cooked past 260°F. An accurate candy thermometer is non-negotiable.
How long does this candy stay fresh, and how should I store it?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature with layers separated by parchment paper, it will stay fresh for 2-3 weeks. Do not refrigerate, as it can cause sticking.
What if I don’t have a marble slab?
A large, well-buttered baking sheet or a section of clean, heatproof countertop works perfectly. The key is a cool, smooth, greased surface.
Can I add other flavors or colors?
Absolutely! Add a few drops of food coloring or alternative extracts (like peppermint or maple) with the vanilla. For a festive touch, consider rolling the finished pieces in crushed peppermint or sprinkles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Stirring while boiling: Stir only until the sugar dissolves. Stirring during the boil can cause crystallization, making the candy grainy.
- Inaccurate temperature: Never guess the temperature. Use a reliable candy or digital thermometer calibrated for accuracy.
- Not greasing enough: Skimping on butter for your hands and tools will lead to a sticky, frustrating pulling process. Re-butter as needed.
- Pulling while too hot: Burn your hands and the candy won’t aerate properly. Let it cool just until you can handle it comfortably.
- Under-pulling: Stopping too soon results in a darker, denser candy. Pull until it is visibly lighter and has a satiny, opaque finish.
Conclusion
Kentucky Cream Pull Candy is more than a recipe; it’s a delightful culinary tradition. The process of pulling the candy is a rewarding experience that yields a uniquely textured, creamy, and sweet homemade gift. By following the detailed steps, avoiding common pitfalls, and using precise temperature control, you can master this classic confection. The result is a batch of beautiful, old-fashioned candies sure to impress friends, family, and anyone lucky enough to receive a piece of your handmade sweetness.
