Homemade Hard Candy with Coating Pan Attachment
Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup
- Food coloring (gel or liquid)
- Flavoring extract or oil (peppermint, cinnamon, fruit flavors, etc.)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Special Equipment:
- Coating pan attachment
- Candy thermometer
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coating Pan Attachment:
- Make sure the coating pan attachment is clean and dry before use.
2. Cook the Candy Mixture:
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In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, water, and light corn syrup. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
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Insert a candy thermometer into the mixture and let it come to a boil. Do not stir once the mixture is boiling.
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Continue boiling until the candy mixture reaches the "hard crack" stage, which is around 300°F (150°C). This is the temperature at which the candy will harden when cooled.
3. Add Color and Flavor:
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Once the candy mixture reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove the saucepan from the heat source.
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Stir in a few drops of food coloring and the flavoring extract or oil of your choice. Adjust the amount to your taste.
4. Load the Coating Pan:
- Place the candy mixture into the coating pan attachment.
5. Start the Coating Process:
- Turn on the coating pan attachment to start the rotation process. The rotating drum will evenly distribute the candy mixture over the candies.
6. Allow the Candy to Cool:
- Let the coating pan attachment run for several minutes, allowing the candy mixture to evenly coat the candies.
7. Dust and Cool:
- While the candies are still in the coating pan attachment, dust them lightly with powdered sugar. This helps prevent the candies from sticking together.
8. Remove and Cool:
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Turn off the coating pan attachment and carefully remove the coated candies.
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Spread the coated candies onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray to cool and fully set.
9. Store:
- Once the coating is fully set, transfer the coated hard candies to an airtight container, separating layers with wax paper to prevent sticking.
Using a coating pan attachment adds a professional touch to your homemade hard candies, creating an even and consistent coating. Experiment with colors, flavors, and shapes to make a variety of delicious and visually appealing candies. Enjoy your homemade creations!