Description
Sweet homemade Kool-Aid taffy pulls together childhood nostalgia and sugary delight in one colorful confection. Crafted with simple ingredients and playful technique, this treat delivers a burst of fruity flavor that delights both kids and adults seeking a classic candy experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/3 cup water
Flavor and Enhancers:
- 1 packet (or 2 tablespoons) Kool-Aid powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Coating:
- Powdered sugar or cornstarch (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare a parchment-lined baking sheet, generously dusting with powdered sugar to create a non-stick surface for candy-making.
- Combine granulated sugar, water, corn syrup, and salt in a heavy saucepan, stirring gently over medium heat until sugar dissolves completely.
- Increase heat and bring mixture to a rolling boil without stirring, monitoring temperature carefully with a candy thermometer until it reaches 235-240°F (112-115°C), approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Immediately remove from heat and swiftly incorporate butter and Kool-Aid powder, whisking vigorously to create a smooth, vibrant mixture. Exercise caution due to extreme heat.
- Let the mixture rest and cool for 3-5 minutes, ensuring it remains warm but safe to handle.
- Lightly powder hands with cornstarch, then begin the taffy-pulling technique: stretch, fold, and repeat methodically until the candy transforms to a lighter, more opaque consistency.
- Gently spread the pulled taffy onto the prepared baking sheet, carefully rolling to achieve desired thickness.
- Using a powdered pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the taffy into bite-sized pieces with precision.
- Allow candy pieces to cool completely at room temperature, enabling them to firm up and develop the classic chewy taffy texture.
- Store in an airtight container and savor your homemade Kool-Aid taffy creation.
Notes
- Protect your workspace by using parchment paper and powdered sugar to prevent sticky situations during taffy making.
- Monitor candy temperature carefully with a reliable thermometer to achieve the perfect soft ball stage for smooth, stretchy texture.
- Work quickly when adding butter and Kool-Aid powder to ensure even flavor distribution and prevent sugar crystallization.
- Wear heat-resistant gloves or use extreme caution when pulling taffy, as the mixture remains extremely hot during initial handling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 124 kcal
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 13 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg