Description
Kentucky Cream Pull Candy is a classic Southern confection known for its creamy, satin texture achieved through a traditional hand-pulling technique. Made with simple ingredients like sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla, this old-fashioned candy delivers a rich and smooth sweetness perfect for homemade treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Butter (for greasing surface and hands)
Instructions
- Prepare the Surface: Butter a marble slab, granite counter, or a large baking sheet thoroughly and set it aside for the candy to cool on.
- Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, heavy cream, light corn syrup, and salt. Stir constantly until the sugar fully dissolves.
- Cook to Hard Ball Stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the saucepan and cook the mixture without stirring until it reaches 260°F (hard ball stage), indicating the correct consistency for pulling.
- Add Vanilla: Immediately remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the candy with flavor.
- Pour and Cool: Carefully pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared buttered surface. Allow it to cool until it is just warm but still pliable, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
- Pull the Candy: Generously butter your hands to prevent sticking and begin stretching and folding the candy repeatedly for 10 to 15 minutes. This process aerates the candy, lightening its color and creating a creamy, satin finish essential to the texture.
- Shape and Set: Form the pulled candy into ropes or logs. Let them sit at room temperature until fully set and firm, about 2 hours.
- Cut into Pieces: Once set, use buttered kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to cut the candy into bite-sized pieces for serving and storage.
Notes
- Humidity can significantly affect candy texture; it is best to make this candy on a dry day.
- Store the candy pieces in an airtight container with wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- The pulling process is essential for developing the candy’s creamy texture — do not skip or rush it.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
