Description
Homemade Maple Syrup Candy is a natural, delicious treat made from pure maple syrup, butter, water, and baking soda. This recipe yields soft, chewy candy with a rich maple flavor and is perfect for gifting or enjoying as a comforting homemade sweet. Quick and easy to prepare, it requires minimal ingredients and offers flexible variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients and Equipment: Gather all ingredients and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure smooth cooking and help prevent the candy from cooling too soon.
- Combine Maple Syrup, Water, and Butter: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, pour the pure maple syrup and water, then add the butter pieces. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts and the mixture starts to boil.
- Boil to the Right Temperature: Attach a candy thermometer to the pan and let the syrup mixture boil until it reaches 240°F (soft-ball stage), crucial for perfect candy texture.
- Remove from Heat and Add Baking Soda: Take the pan off the stove and immediately stir in the baking soda and vanilla extract if using. The mixture will foam up and lighten in color, creating a fluffy texture.
- Pour and Cool: Quickly pour the foamy syrup onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread evenly and allow it to cool completely at room temperature until firm yet slightly pliable.
- Cut and Enjoy: Once cooled, cut the maple syrup candy into bite-sized pieces or fun shapes using a knife or cookie cutters. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use a reliable candy thermometer for precise temperature control.
- Stir gently when boiling to avoid premature sugar crystallization.
- Pour immediately after adding baking soda as the foaming reaction happens quickly.
- Choose 100% pure maple syrup for best flavor and color.
- Allow ample cooling time to ensure the candy sets properly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximate)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 7mg