Peppermint Taffy

In the NutriGuide test kitchen, Chief Culinary Specialist Stewart Lucas refined this classic Peppermint Taffy to celebrate vibrant, wholesome ingredients. By prioritizing aromatic layering and precise thermal control, this recipe achieves remarkable culinary depth while preserving natural micronutrients and wholesome texture.

At NutriGuide, our mission is to ensure that home cooking is both accessible and culinary-grade. When executing Peppermint Taffy, focus on fresh aromatics, dry surface contact for proper searing, and allowing the food to rest before serving.

• (PICTURED ABOVE)
• elaine chichura, kingsley, pennsylvania
• For a fun afternoon activity, get the kids or friends
• involved in an old-fashioned taffy pull. The soft,
• chewy taffy has a milky, minty flavor, and it won’t
• stick to the wrapper.You can change the color and
• flavor, too.
• 2-1/2 cups sugar
• 1-1/2 cups light corn syrup
• 4 teaspoons white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint oil
• Red food coloring
• 1 Butter a 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. pan; set aside.

Chef's Sourcing & Quality Tips:

• Produce & Aromatics: Always use fresh whole aromatics and seasonal herbs rather than dehydrated powders when possible.
• Cooking Oils: Utilize cold-pressed oils with appropriate smoke points such as extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil.
• Salt & Seasoning: Season from a modest height above the pan to ensure an even, uniform crystalline dispersion.

Follow these sequential steps with careful attention to sensory cues and cooking temperatures:

Step 1: Technique & Execution

In a heavy large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, vinegar and salt

Step 2: Technique & Execution

Cook and stir over low heat until sugar is dissolved

Step 3: Technique & Execution

Bring to a boil over medium heat

Step 4: Technique & Execution

Slowly add the milk; cook and stir until a candy thermometer reads 248° (firm-ball stage). 2 Remove from the heat; stir in peppermint oil and food coloring, keeping face away from mixture, as odor is very strong

Step 5: Technique & Execution

Pour into prepared pan

Step 6: Technique & Execution

Let stand for 8 minutes or until cool enough to handle. 3 With well-buttered fingers, quickly pull candy until firm but pliable (color will become light pink)