Why Make This Recipe

Homemade Saltwater Taffy Rolls are a nostalgic treat that many remember fondly from their childhood. They’re chewy, flavorful, and can be customized with various colors and flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Making taffy at home allows for creativity and control over ingredients, making it a fun activity for the whole family. Plus, there’s something wonderfully satisfying about pulling and shaping your own candy.

How to Make Homemade Saltwater Taffy Rolls

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups light corn syrup
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)
• Flavor extracts (optional, such as peppermint, lemon, or strawberry)

Directions:

1. Generously grease a large baking sheet or marble slab with butter.
2. In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Using a candy thermometer, cook until it reaches 250°F (120°C), the hard-ball stage. Remove from heat immediately.
4. Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and any desired food coloring or flavor extracts.
5. Pour the hot taffy onto the prepared baking sheet and let it cool until it can be handled safely without burning your fingers.
6. Once cool enough, butter your hands and begin pulling the taffy. Stretch, fold, and pull until it becomes lighter in color and firm.
7. Roll the taffy into ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces.
8. Wrap each piece in wax paper to keep it fresh.

How to Serve Homemade Saltwater Taffy Rolls

Serve Homemade Saltwater Taffy Rolls at parties, in treat bags, or as a sweet snack at home. They look great on a plate and are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. You can also pair them with other candies for a fun dessert table.

How to Store Homemade Saltwater Taffy Rolls

To keep your Saltwater Taffy fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure to keep it away from heat and moisture. Wrapped individually in wax paper, they can stay fresh for several weeks, but they are best enjoyed within the first few days after making them.

Tips to Make Homemade Saltwater Taffy Rolls

• Use a candy thermometer to ensure the taffy reaches the right temperature for the perfect texture.
• Be cautious when handling the hot taffy, as it can burn your skin.
• If the taffy is too sticky, lightly butter your hands or the surface where you are pulling it.

Variation

You can create different flavors and colors of taffy by adding various flavor extracts and food coloring. Experiment with classic flavors like strawberry, lemon, or peppermint, or get creative with unique combinations like blue raspberry or cotton candy.

FAQs

1. Can I make Saltwater Taffy without a candy thermometer?
While it is possible, using a candy thermometer helps you achieve the right consistency. If you don’t have one, you can try the cold water test: drop a bit of taffy into cold water to check its firmness.

2. Why is it called "saltwater taffy"?
The name comes from the salty ocean air of Atlantic City, where this candy was famously sold. Despite the name, it does not actually contain seawater.

3. How long does homemade taffy last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, homemade saltwater taffy can last for several weeks, but it is best enjoyed fresh within the first few days.