Kentucky Cream Candy is a classic Southern confection that has delighted many with its sweet, creamy texture. This hand-pulled candy is made primarily from sugar, cream, butter, and vanilla, giving it a delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or satisfying those nostalgic cravings, this candy is a true Southern staple. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Kentucky Cream Candy
This Kentucky Cream Candy is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of Southern tradition. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Simple ingredients that are easy to find.
- Perfect for gifting during the holidays.
- Creates a nostalgic experience with every bite.
- Can be customized with flavor variations.
- Quick to prepare, taking only 35 minutes.
- Suitable for vegetarians, making it inclusive.
With its creamy texture, it also pairs well with Kentucky Bourbon Balls and other Southern Cream Candy options, making it an essential treat for any occasion!
Ingredients for Kentucky Cream Candy
Gather these items:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter (for greasing hands and work surface)
How to Make Kentucky Cream Candy Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Generously butter a marble slab or large heat-safe surface. Lightly butter your hands or wear greased gloves.
- Step 2: In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar and cream. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
- Step 3: Insert a candy thermometer and cook without stirring until mixture reaches 255°F (hard ball stage).
- Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
- Step 5: Pour onto buttered surface and allow to cool about 10 minutes, until warm but safe to handle.
- Step 6: With buttered hands, stretch and fold the candy repeatedly for 10–15 minutes until it lightens in color and becomes firm and glossy.
- Step 7: Form into a rope and cut into 1-inch pieces using a buttered knife or scissors.
- Step 8: Place pieces on wax paper and let rest for several hours until slightly firm outside and creamy inside.
Pro Tips for the Best Kentucky Cream Candy
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure your thermometer is accurate for perfect results.
- Work quickly when handling the candy to maintain its texture.
- Store in a cool, dry place to keep its quality.
- Consider adding a splash of bourbon for a Bourbon Cream Confection twist.
Best Ways to Serve Kentucky Cream Candy
This candy is versatile! Here are a few serving ideas:
- Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Use as a topping for ice cream or desserts.
- Incorporate into holiday gift baskets alongside Kentucky Dessert Confections.
How to Store and Reheat Kentucky Cream Candy
For storage, place your candy in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep it fresh for up to two weeks. If you’ve made a large batch, it’s perfect for meal prep for upcoming events!
Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Cream Candy
What’s the secret to perfect Kentucky Cream Candy?
The secret lies in the cooking temperature. Ensure your candy reaches 255°F for that perfect hard ball stage, which gives it the right texture.
Can I make Kentucky Cream Candy ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this candy days in advance. Just store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Kentucky Cream Candy?
To avoid issues, ensure your hands and work surface are well-buttered to prevent sticking. Also, keep an eye on the candy thermometer for accurate results.
Variations of Kentucky Cream Candy You Can Try
Here are some fun twists to this traditional recipe:
- Add crushed nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Incorporate flavors like peppermint or almond extract.
- Try different types of cream, such as coconut, for a unique flavor.
These variations will give you the opportunity to experiment while enjoying this Traditional Kentucky Candy Recipe!
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For more on the history of candy making, you can refer to History.com.
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Kentucky Cream Candy: 7 Steps to a Sweet Southern Delight
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Kentucky Cream Candy is a classic Southern confection made with sugar, cream, butter, and vanilla. This hand-pulled candy has an airy texture and melts in your mouth, making it perfect for holidays and gifting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter (for greasing hands and work surface)
Instructions
- Generously butter a marble slab or large heat-safe surface. Lightly butter your hands or wear greased gloves.
- In a heavy saucepan, combine sugar and cream. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
- Insert a candy thermometer and cook without stirring until mixture reaches 255°F (hard ball stage).
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
- Pour onto buttered surface and allow to cool about 10 minutes, until warm but safe to handle.
- With buttered hands, stretch and fold the candy repeatedly for 10–15 minutes until it lightens in color and becomes firm and glossy.
- Form into a rope and cut into 1-inch pieces using a buttered knife or scissors.
- Place pieces on wax paper and let rest for several hours until slightly firm outside and creamy inside.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg