Are you ready to unleash a fiery explosion of flavor? Forget boring sweets; this Hot Tamales Candy recipe takes homemade candy making to a whole new level. This incredibly easy recipe captures the iconic cinnamon-fire punch of those little candies, transforming them into a bigger, bolder, and more customizable treat perfect for Halloween, parties, or any time you crave a spicy sugar rush. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious and surprisingly simple homemade candy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring (or more, to your desired intensity)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon oil
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: Candy thermometer
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This is crucial for easy candy removal later!
- If using a candy thermometer, prepare it by making sure it is clean and ready for use.
Making the Candy:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir gently until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Once boiling, clip the candy thermometer to the side of the pan (if using) and continue to cook, swirling the pan occasionally.
- Cook the mixture until it reaches the firm-ball stage (245°F on a candy thermometer), or until a small amount dropped into a glass of ice water forms a firm ball that holds its shape. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to burn the mixture.
- Remove the pan from the heat and carefully stir in the red food coloring, cinnamon oil, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly until the color is evenly distributed.
Setting and Cutting:
- Quickly pour the candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it evenly to about ¼ inch thickness using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Let the candy cool completely and harden at room temperature, undisturbed. This process may take a couple of hours. Do not refrigerate, as this can cause the candy to become grainy.
- Once completely hardened, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the candy into small squares or other desired shapes.
Tips for Success:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach your desired heat.
- Color Intensity: The amount of red food coloring you use will determine the vibrancy of the candy's color. Start with one teaspoon and add more if needed to achieve your desired shade.
- Candy Thermometer: Using a candy thermometer ensures accurate results, especially if you are new to candy making. However, you can also perform the ice water test for determining doneness.
Variations:
- Citrus Kick: Add a few drops of orange or lemon extract for a zesty twist.
- Chocolate Delight: Dip the hardened candy pieces in melted dark or milk chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
- Halloween Fun: Use Halloween-themed cookie cutters to create fun shapes.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate, based on 1-inch square):
- Calories: Approximately 50-60
- Sugar: High
- Fat: Low
- Protein: Negligible
This Hot Tamales Candy recipe is a fantastic way to create a delicious and personalized sweet treat. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to follow and achieve impressive results. Enjoy the spicy sweetness!