The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the spirit than with a batch of classic old-fashioned Christmas candy recipes? These timeless treats are sure to bring back memories of childhood Christmases spent cozied up by the fireplace, surrounded by twinkling lights and the sweet scent of sugar and spice.
From crunchy peanut brittle to chewy divinity fudge, these 18 delightful recipes will transport you back in time to a era when baking was an art form and treats were made with love. Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or just looking for a fun holiday activity to share with the family, these classic recipes are sure to bring joy and festive cheer to your holiday season.
Stay tuned for our collection of 18 old-fashioned Christmas candy recipes that will make your taste buds dance with delight!
Peanut Brittle
This classic American treat is a staple at many holiday gatherings. With its crunchy peanut texture and sweet caramel flavor, it’s easy to see why peanut brittle remains a favorite among both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanuts
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon butter or vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine peanuts, corn syrup, sugar, and baking soda. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in butter or oil and vanilla extract (if using). Let cool slightly.
4. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
5. Allow to cool and set completely, about 30-40 minutes. Break into pieces.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Divinity Fudge
This classic Southern treat is a staple at holiday gatherings and parties. With its smooth texture and sweet, caramel-like flavor, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 12 ounces white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine butter, sugar, and corn syrup in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt. Let cool slightly.
4. Stir in white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate until melted and smooth.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. Cut into small squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Homemade Caramels
A sweet and indulgent treat that requires just a few simple ingredients and some gentle heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine the sugar, 1/4 cup of the heavy cream, and the butter in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat.
2. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Use a thermometer to reach 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove from heat and slowly pour in the remaining cream. The mixture will bubble and steam vigorously, so be careful!
5. Let it cool slightly before pouring onto a parchment-lined surface or a silicone mat.
6. Allow the caramels to set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Old-Fashioned Hard Candy
Relive the nostalgia of childhood with this classic recipe for old-fashioned hard candy. This traditional treat requires just a few simple ingredients and some patience, but the reward is well worth the wait.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– Food coloring (optional)
– Flavorings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly. If desired, add food coloring or flavorings and stir well.
4. Pour the mixture onto a greased surface, such as a silicone mat or a piece of parchment paper. Let it cool and set at room temperature.
5. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the candy into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Christmas Peppermint Bark
Add a touch of festive cheer to your holiday season with this easy-to-make Christmas Peppermint Bark recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be creating delicious treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed candy canes (about 6-8 cans)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes and chopped fresh mint leaves (if using) over the top of the white chocolate.
6. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Pour the melted dark chocolate over the top of the white chocolate mixture.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
9. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Molasses Taffy
Molasses taffy is a classic old-fashioned treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This recipe yields soft, chewy, and flavorful candies with a rich molasses flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Flavorings such as vanilla or peppermint (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the corn syrup, sugar, and molasses in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture reaches 250°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and carefully add the baking soda and salt. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so be cautious not to splash any of the hot liquid.
5. Pour the molasses taffy onto a greased surface such as a silicone mat or a piece of parchment paper. Let it cool and set for about 30 minutes.
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to shape into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Traditional Toffee
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this traditional recipe for homemade toffee. This classic treat is made with butter, sugar, and a touch of sea salt, creating a rich and creamy flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 cup (120g) chopped almonds or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the toffee reaches 295°F (147°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter and sea salt until melted and smooth.
5. Pour onto prepared baking sheet and let cool to room temperature.
6. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the top and press gently.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cherry Mash Candy
Create a deliciously nostalgic treat with this classic recipe for Cherry Mash Candy! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying these chewy, cherry-filled candies in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) marshmallows
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup (60g) water
– 1 tablespoon (15ml) unflavored gelatin
– 1 teaspoon cherry extract or 1/4 teaspoon artificial cherry flavor
– Red food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for about 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine marshmallows, corn syrup, and water. Place the saucepan over low heat and stir until the marshmallows are completely dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and add softened gelatin, cherry extract or flavor, and red food coloring (if using). Stir until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Let it set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
5. Cut into small squares and dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pecan Pralines
These gooey, nutty confections are a staple of Southern cuisine and make the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these delicious pralines in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pecan halves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the corn syrup, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until melted.
5. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with pecan halves.
6. Let cool slightly, then use a spatula to spread out the pralines into a thin layer.
7. Allow to cool and harden completely before breaking into pieces.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rocky Road Candy
A beloved childhood treat, rocky road candy is a simple yet satisfying confection that combines melted chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts for a deliciously gooey snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120g) marshmallows
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 tablespoon (15g) light corn syrup
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips and corn syrup, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and add marshmallows. Let stand for 5 minutes to allow them to puff up.
4. Stir in nuts until well combined.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and let cool and set at room temperature or refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
6. Break into small pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes, plus cooling time.
Chocolate Covered Cherries
Elevate your snack game with these rich and indulgent chocolate covered cherries. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a thoughtful gift, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup maraschino cherries
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon shortening (such as Crisco)
– Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Stir in the shortening until fully incorporated.
3. Wash and pat dry the cherries with paper towels.
4. Dip each cherry into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly.
5. Place the coated cherries on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
7. Garnish with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (chill time: 30 minutes)
Spiced Gumdrops
These chewy treats are infused with a warm blend of spices, perfect for snacking or as a unique addition to your holiday gift boxes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. Combine the powdered sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup of water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until fully dissolved.
5. Stir in the cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
6. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Let it cool and set at room temperature (about 30-40 minutes).
7. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the gumdrops into desired shapes.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes total, including cooling time.
Maple Cream Candy
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the richness of maple syrup with a creamy texture, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine maple syrup, corn syrup, and sugar. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cream of tartar, heavy cream, and softened butter until smooth.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and let cool to room temperature.
6. Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to shape into desired forms.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Old-Time Butterscotch
Take a step back in time with this traditional butterscotch recipe, reminiscent of grandma’s kitchen. This sweet and creamy treat is perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and sea salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the butterscotch reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Pour into a clean glass jar or airtight container and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Balls
These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as a sweet addition to any party. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup powdered milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix until well combined.
2. Add powdered milk and honey. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time:
None! These peanut butter balls are no-bake.
Fruitcake Truffles
These bite-sized treats are a creative twist on the traditional fruitcake. By mixing it with creamy buttercream and shaping into truffles, you’ll be amazed at how this old-fashioned dessert becomes a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fruitcake, crumbled
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled fruitcake and softened butter until well combined.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
3. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract; mix until fully incorporated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Roll each truffle between your hands to shape.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply refrigerate and serve when ready.
Vanilla Sea Foam
Experience the subtle charm of vanilla in a delicate sea foam that will transport you to a beachside retreat. This recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and kosher salt until stiff peaks form.
2. Add the vanilla extract and granulated sugar; whisk until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.
4. Pipe small, round shapes onto a serving plate or tray.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the foam to set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with edible flowers or citrus zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including whipping and piping)
Grandma’s Popcorn Balls
These bite-sized treats are a classic favorite that’s perfect for parties, movie nights, or just a quick snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of delicious popcorn balls that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 6 cups popped popcorn
– 1 cup marshmallows
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and butter. Place over medium heat until the mixture reaches 250°F.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour the hot mixture over the popped popcorn and marshmallows. Stir until well combined.
4. Using buttered hands, shape into small balls. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
5. Let cool and harden completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 classic old-fashioned Christmas candy recipes! From peanut brittle and divinity fudge to homemade caramels and traditional toffee, these treats are sure to bring joy to friends and family. Try your hand at making old-fashioned hard candy, molasses taffy, or spiced gumdrops. And don’t forget the classics like cherry mash candy, pecan pralines, and chocolate-covered cherries. With these recipes, you’ll be well on your way to creating a festive holiday spread that’s sure to impress.
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