Salt Water Taffy

Do you have fond memories of salt water taffy?  I don't because it was not really popular in most of the places I grew up.  I do recall it sticking to my teeth and having to scrape it off.

For a candy with an interesting name, it is not made with salt water as the name implies. No one is sure how it originated but there is a story from New Jersey that might explain the title.

Back in 1883, a huge storm hit Atlantic City flooding many of the businesses.  Afterwards, one of of the candy shops opened and when asked what type of candy he sold, he looked around and replied that all he had was salt water taffy.  Someone over heard his response and suggested he use the name.  Eventually by 1920, over 450 business manufactured the delight.

Salt water taffy is a candy you can make at home.  Its a mix of 2 cups of sugar, 2 tbsp corn starch, 1 cup light corn syrup, 2 tsp glycerin, 3/4 cup water, 2 tbsp butter, 1 tsp salt, 1/4 to 1 tsp flavoring and 3 drops food coloring.

To make, you mix the sugar with the cornstarch in a pan.  Add in the corn syrup, glycerin, water, butter and salt.  Stir heat over medium heat until the sugar melts.  Keep stirring the mixture until it boils.  At this point, stop stirring and let cook until it reaches 270 degrees. Remove the pan from the heat before adding the flavoring and food coloring.

Pour on a greased cookie sheet.  Let it cool til it can be held in your hand.  With greased hands, start pulling the taffy for 10 to 15 minutes until it is light in color and satiny.  Roll the taffy into a long rope about 1/2 inch thick.  Cut into inch long pieces and let set 30 minutes before wrapping in waxed paper.

This is a great rainy day activity if you have children.  Let them pull and play with the taffy and then enjoy the end product.  Perhaps you could use it at a party.

Let me know what you think.  Enjoy.