Directions to follow
- In a heavy saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, heavy cream, and unsalted butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and continue cooking without stirring until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C), also known as the soft-ball stage.
- Once it reaches the right temperature, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Pour the mixture onto a buttered marble slab or a greased baking sheet, spreading it out evenly.
- Allow the mixture to cool until it’s warm enough to handle but not hard.
- Butter your hands, then begin to pull the candy by stretching and folding it repeatedly until it turns glossy and creamy in color.
- Shape the candy into long ropes and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Dust the pieces lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and to make them extra pretty.
Best ways to enjoy it
Kentucky Cream Pull Candy is delightful on its own but can also shine when paired with other treats. Consider serving it alongside hot cocoa for a cozy treat or giving it as a thoughtful gift during the holidays. You can plate these bite-sized candies in a decorative box or on a colorful platter to showcase their unique texture and shine. They make fantastic additions to dessert tables or snack trays!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Kentucky Cream Pull Candy at its best, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live in a particularly humid area, consider adding a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. For longer storage, you can freeze the pieces in a zip-top bag, ensuring they’re well-separated to avoid clumping. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Pro chef tips
To achieve the best results with your candy, make sure you use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to ensure even heat distribution. Stirring is crucial until the sugar dissolves, but once it reaches the desired temperature, avoid stirring to prevent affecting the texture — let it bubble away. If you’re having trouble achieving that glossy finish while pulling, try conditioning your hands with a bit of butter for added slip.
Creative twists
While traditional Kentucky Cream Pull Candy is irresistible on its own, you can experiment with flavors and add-ins. Consider adding a bit of peppermint extract for a festive touch or folding in some crushed nuts for a delightful crunch. You can even dip them in chocolate for an extra layer of decadence. Think about dusting them with cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar for a unique twist!
Common questions
What is the prep time for this recipe?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus additional time for cooling and pulling. Overall, you can enjoy your candy in about an hour!
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
While heavy cream is key to getting that rich texture, you can try using half-and-half for a lighter version, but it may not be as creamy.
How long will the candy last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Kentucky Cream Pull Candy can last for a couple of weeks at room temperature.
