Candy is one of those things that is universally enjoyed by people of all ages and cultures. And what's not to enjoy? It's sweet, gooey and abundantly satisfying. Candy just makes people happy. So in the spirit of making the world a happier place, spend an afternoon whipping up these delightful candy confections. It's fun, it's easy, and it's the right thing to do.
Homemade Caramels
Nothing says "gooey" like homemade caramels. And with a few different extracts, the flavor of these caramels can be varied in wonderful ways.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups softened butter
- 4 1/2 cups light brown sugar
- 1/8 tsp. Kosher salt
- 2 cups light corn syrup
- 30 oz. sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tsp. flavored extract
Directions:
- Butter one large or two small glass baking dishes. Set aside.
- Combine butter, brown sugar and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until thoroughly melted and combined.
- Add light corn syrup. Stir well.
- Slowly add sweetened condensed milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook candy, stirring constantly, until it reaches 245 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 15 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in flavored extract. Suggestions: vanilla, raspberry, chocolate or orange.
- Pour the candy into prepared baking dishes.
- Cool completely and cut into squares.
- Store caramels in an airtight container.
Peanut Butter Truffles
Peanut butter... chocolate...few will dispute the perfection of this delightful combination. These truffles are so melt-in-your-mouth fantastic, family and friends will be begging for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup softened butter
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup crushed peanuts
- 2 cups confectioner's sugar
- 5 cups milk or dark chocolate chips
Directions:
- Combine butter and peanut butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until smooth and melted.
- Add crushed peanuts and confectioner's sugar. Stir well to thoroughly combine.
- Remove from heat and stir for 2 to 3 more minutes.
- Spoon peanut butter filling into a bowl and allow it to cool completely.
- Roll filling into 1-inch balls and place on wax paper-lined cookie sheets. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Pour chocolate chips into a microwave-save bowl. Heat on high for 60 seconds. Stir chocolate chips, then heat for another 30 seconds. Repeat until chocolate is melted and smooth.
- Remove peanut butter balls from refrigerator.
- Using a seafood or fondue fork, dip the peanut butter balls into the melted chocolate and place them back on the wax paper-lined cookie sheets.
- Place the truffles in the freezer for 10 minutes to set up.
- Store truffles in an airtight container.
Pecan Rolls
These super-sweet candy rolls are marvelous on a party buffet table and make delicious holiday gifts. They're versatile, too; try substituting different fondant flavors and nuts for variations on this gourmet treat.
Ingredients:
- Pre-packaged rolled white fondant
- Cornstarch
- Flavored extract (optional)
- Food coloring (optional)
- Finely chopped pecans
Directions:
- Dust work surface and hands with cornstarch.
- Remove a large piece of rolled white fondant from its tub. Knead the fondant until it is smooth and satiny.
- Add flavored extract one drop at a time until desired flavor is achieved. Suggestions: vanilla, almond, raspberry.
- Add food coloring (optional). Knead in one or two drops at a time until the desired tint is achieved.
- Form the fondant into 2-inch thick rolls.
- Roll in chopped pecans.
- Wrap each roll securely in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. Do not refrigerate.
- Cut rolls into 1/2-inch slices when ready to serve.
Yvette Sajem - Yvette is a freelance writer and animal rescue advocate. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and creative writing. She has ...
