Homemade Peppermint Chewy Candy

Peppermint-flavored taffy makes a tasty holiday gift.

Homemade chewy peppermint candies -- or taffy -- make tasty birthday or holiday gifts. Although peppermint is traditionally associated with Christmas, the cool, minty treats will make thoughtful warm-weather gifts as well. Make peppermint candies easily and at a fraction of the cost of store-bought varieties. Wrap taffy pieces in paper, and package them in a decorative cellophane bag as an attractive gift presentation.

Things You'll Need

• 15-by-10-inch baking pan, 1-inch high
• Butter
• Large nonstick saucepan
• 2 1/2 cups white granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups corn syrup
• 4 tsp. white vinegar
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• Candy thermometer
• 1/4 tsp. natural peppermint oil
• Red food coloring (optional)
• Knife
• Wax paper

Instructions

1. Rub softened butter inside a 15-by-10-inch baking pan that is 1 inch high to prevent the taffy from sticking to it.

2. Pour 2 1/2 cups of white granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups of corn syrup, 4 tsp. of white vinegar and a 1/4 tsp. of salt into a large, nonstick saucepan. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved.

3. Turn the stove temperature to "Medium-High" and bring the mixture to a boil. Add 1/2 cup of evaporated milk and continue stirring the mixture. Keep checking the temperature with a candy thermometer, and turn the heat off when it reaches 248 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. Take the saucepan off of the burner. Stir 1/4 tsp. of natural peppermint oil into the taffy mixture. Add red food coloring if you want the taffy to have color.

5. Pour the taffy mixture into the buttered pan, and allow it to rest until it is cool to the touch. Grease your fingers with butter or shortening. Begin pulling the taffy into a 1/2-inch rope. Use a buttered or oiled knife to cut the taffy rope into 1- or 1 1/2-inch pieces, depending on how large you want them to be. Wrap each taffy piece in a square of waxed paper, and twist the ends closed.

References

• Taste of Home: Peppermint Taffy Recipe
• Razzle Dazzle Recipes: Saltwater Taffy