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Homemade Salt Water Taffy: A Chewy Boardwalk Classic

Six colorful pieces of homemade salt water taffy, individually wrapped in twisted wax paper, arranged in a circle.
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Recreate the classic beach vacation experience by making this colorful, chewy salt water taffy at home. This recipe breaks down the process into manageable steps for a fun project.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter, softened
  • Food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Have the softened butter ready for greasing your hands later.
  2. Combine the sugar, corn syrup, and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Stop stirring once the mixture boils. Insert a candy thermometer. Cook the syrup without stirring until it reaches 250 degrees Fahrenheit (Firm Ball Stage).
  4. Remove the pan from the heat. Carefully stir in the salt and vanilla extract. If using food coloring, add a few drops now.
  5. Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let it cool completely until you can handle it without burning your hands, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  6. Grease your hands generously with the softened butter. Lift the cooled candy mass from the sheet.
  7. Begin pulling the candy. Fold the mass over itself and pull repeatedly. This incorporates air, which gives the taffy its final texture. Continue pulling for 10 to 15 minutes until the candy becomes opaque and stiff.
  8. Once the taffy is stiff, roll it into a long rope, about 1 inch thick. Cut the rope into small, bite-sized pieces using kitchen shears.
  9. Wrap each piece individually in wax paper to prevent sticking. Store your homemade candy in an airtight container.

Notes

  • For easier handling, you can lightly grease a metal hook or stand mixer attachment to help with the pulling process if you prefer not to use your hands extensively.
  • If the taffy becomes too hard to pull, briefly place it back over very low heat to soften slightly, then continue pulling.
  • This recipe makes excellent summer treats perfect for beach snacks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dishicious.com/salt-water-taffy-recipe-homemade-candy/