How to Make Sugar-Free Hard Candy

Hard candies were being enjoyed by the English and American colonies as early as the 17th century. By the mid-1800s more than 380 American factories were producing candy, mainly consisting of "penny candy." Homemade hard candies such as peppermints and lemon drops became popular in the early 19th century. Remember, sugar-free does not mean calorie-free. If you have diabetes, don't forget that sugar is allowed as part of your meal plan, ask your dietitian for more details.

Things You'll Need

• 1 ½ cups of sugar-free syrup
• 1 cup of Maltitol
• ¾ teaspoon of candy flavoring oil
• Food coloring (optional)
• Vegetable spray (non-stick)
• Heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Candy thermometer
• Candy molds
• Plastic wrappers

Instructions

1. Spray the candy molds with the vegetable spray.

2. Mix the syrup and maltitol into the saucepan and bring it to a boil. Insert the candy thermometer into the mix and bring the temperature to 300 degrees. When using a candy thermometer make sure to not let the thermometer touch the bottom of the pan.

3. Remove the pan from the heat.

4. Add the flavored oil and food coloring immediately after the syrup mixture stops bubbling. Mix well.

5. Pour the candy into the molds. Place the molds into the refrigerator for 2 hours to allow cooling.

6. Wrap the candies in plastic wrappers. For a longer shelf life store the candy in an airtight container.

References

• Hard candy recipes
• Diabetes Monitor