Are you craving a sweet treat that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to make? Then look no further! This Cream Drops candy recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while showcasing your homemade cooking skills. These melt-in-your-mouth candies are a nostalgic favorite, and making them from scratch is far easier than you might think. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy recipe for a truly delightful, healthy-ish candy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Food coloring (gel or liquid)
- Optional: Sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration
Instructions:
Step 1: The Candy Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, milk, butter, and salt. Stir gently until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Do not stir excessively once the sugar dissolves, as this can cause crystallization.
Step 2: Reaching the Soft-Ball Stage
Bring the mixture to a boil, then clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, making sure it doesn't touch the bottom. Continue to boil, without stirring, until the mixture reaches 235°F (113°C), the soft-ball stage. This is crucial for the perfect creamy texture.
Step 3: Flavor and Color
Remove the pan from the heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract. If using, add your desired food coloring now. Be careful, as the mixture will be very hot.
Step 4: Shaping the Cream Drops
Lightly grease a baking sheet or silicone mat. Using a spoon or a piping bag, drop spoonfuls of the candy mixture onto the prepared surface. If you're feeling fancy, you can add sprinkles or chopped nuts to the top of each drop before they set.
Step 5: Cooling and Setting
Allow the cream drops to cool and harden completely at room temperature. This process usually takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on the humidity and temperature of your kitchen.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Once the candies are firm, carefully peel them from the baking sheet. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These delicious cream drops make fantastic quick dinner ideas for a sweet ending to a meal, or a delightful treat any time of day!
Tips for Success:
- Use a Candy Thermometer: This is essential for achieving the correct consistency. Without it, you risk undercooking or overcooking the candy.
- Don't Stir Excessively: Too much stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize, resulting in grainy candies.
- Work Quickly: Once the candy reaches the soft-ball stage, it will begin to cool and thicken quickly. Work efficiently to shape your candies.
- Grease the Surface: This prevents the candies from sticking to the baking sheet.
Variations:
- Chocolate Cream Drops: Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mixture along with the sugar.
- Mint Cream Drops: Add 1-2 teaspoons of peppermint extract instead of vanilla.
- Fruity Cream Drops: Add a splash of fruit juice or puree for a burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per candy, approximate):
This will vary depending on size and additions. A general estimate is approximately 50-70 calories, with varying amounts of sugar, fat, and carbohydrates. This recipe offers a healthier alternative to store-bought candy, using simple ingredients and avoiding many artificial additives.
This easy recipe for homemade Cream Drops offers a fantastic opportunity to create a delicious and memorable treat. Enjoy the process and the delightful results! These make amazing gifts too, so why not try making a double batch?