Are you looking for a unique and delicious treat to add a touch of spooky fun to your next gathering? Look no further than this recipe for Coal Candy! These deceptively dark and mysterious candies are surprisingly easy to make and offer a delightful flavor that will impress even the most discerning sweet tooth. This recipe is perfect for Halloween parties, spooky movie nights, or simply satisfying a craving for something different. Get ready to dive into the surprisingly simple world of homemade Coal Candy – a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy(ish) treats!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- Black food coloring (gel or liquid)
- Optional: Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Candy Base
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Avoid stirring excessively once the sugar has dissolved; you want to minimize crystallization.
Step 2: Reaching the Soft Crack Stage
This is a crucial step! You need to cook the sugar mixture to the soft crack stage (approximately 270°F on a candy thermometer). This will give the coal candy its characteristic chewy texture. If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can do a cold water test. Drop a small amount of the mixture into a glass of ice water. It should form a firm, hard ball that cracks when you try to bend it. Be careful, as the mixture will be very hot.
Step 3: Incorporating Flavor and Color
Once the syrup reaches the soft crack stage, remove the pan from the heat. Carefully stir in the vanilla extract and cocoa powder until fully incorporated. Then, add the black food coloring, a little at a time, until you achieve the desired deep black color. Be patient, as it may take a bit of coloring to reach the perfect “coal” shade.
Step 4: Shaping and Cooling
Lightly grease a baking sheet or silicone mat. Pour the candy mixture onto the prepared surface and let it cool completely. This will take some time, allowing the candy to set firmly. Once cool, you can break the candy into irregular, coal-like pieces. If desired, sprinkle with coarse sea salt for an extra touch of deliciousness. This adds a surprising salty counterpoint to the sweetness.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Coal Candy:
- Use a candy thermometer: For consistent results, a candy thermometer is highly recommended. It ensures the syrup reaches the correct temperature for optimal texture.
- Don't over-stir: Over-stirring can cause the sugar to crystallize. Once the sugar dissolves, minimize stirring.
- Work quickly: Once the mixture is removed from the heat, work quickly to incorporate the flavorings and color. The candy will begin to set as it cools.
- Grease the surface: Greasing the surface prevents the candy from sticking and makes it easier to break into pieces.
Variations:
- Spicy Coal Candy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili extract for a spicy kick.
- Mint Coal Candy: Substitute peppermint extract for vanilla extract for a refreshing twist.
- Colored Coal Candy: Experiment with different food colorings to create unique and vibrant candy pieces.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate, may vary depending on portion size):
This will vary depending on the portion size. For a more precise nutritional profile, use a nutrition calculator based on the ingredients and portion size of the coal candy pieces. However, as a general guideline, expect this to be a high-sugar treat.
This homemade Coal Candy recipe is a fun and easy way to create a memorable and delicious Halloween treat, or simply a unique candy for any occasion. Enjoy!