20 Russian Hard Candy Recipe Experience Flavor Like Never Before!
Published on: Mar 14, 2024
Russian hard candy, also known as "kommunarka," is a traditional confection that has been enjoyed for centuries in Russia. This timeless sweet treat is made from simple ingredients and is known for its rich, bold flavors and satisfying crunch. While there are many variations of this candy, the traditional recipe remains a closely-guarded secret, passed down through generations. In this article, we will delve into the history of Russian hard candy and share a professional and well-organized recipe that will allow you to recreate this delectable treat in your own kitchen.
Main Ingredients: White Sugar, Water, Light Corn Syrup, Peppermint
If you're a fan of the classic hard candy, then this recipe is for you. Made with just sugar, water, and corn syrup, this Old Fashioned Hard Candy is simple yet satisfying. The key to getting the perfect texture is to use a candy thermometer and cook the mixture to the hard crack stage, which is around 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Add in your favorite flavoring and food coloring for a personalized touch. You can even use essential oils for a more natural flavoring option.
2of 20
Peppermint Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Light Corn Syrup, Peppermint Extract
Nothing says the holiday season like peppermint, and this Peppermint Hard Candy recipe is perfect for those festive gatherings. The combination of peppermint extract and crushed candy canes gives this candy a refreshing and minty flavor. Plus, the red and white swirls make for a beautiful presentation. This recipe also uses corn syrup to prevent the sugar from crystallizing and producing a gritty texture.
3of 20
Hard Candy Peppermint Twists
Main Ingredients: Water, White Vinegar, Sugar, Peppermint Extract
For a fun and unique twist on the classic peppermint candy, try these Hard Candy Peppermint Twists. These candies are made by twisting two separate colors of candy together to create a candy cane-like appearance. You can use any combination of colors and flavors, but for a traditional Christmas look, red and green are the way to go. These candies are perfect for gifting or adding some holiday cheer to your candy dish.
4of 20
Homemade Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Light Karo Syrup, Water, Flavoring, Food Coloring
If you've always wanted to make your own hard candy but thought it was too difficult, this recipe will change your mind. This Homemade Hard Candy recipe uses only four ingredients and doesn't require any special equipment. The key is to heat the sugar mixture slowly and evenly, so it doesn't burn. You can also add in food coloring and flavorings to create your own custom candy creations.
5of 20
Hard Candy Snowflakes
Main Ingredients: Candy, Meat, Snowflake
These Hard Candy Snowflakes are not only delicious but also make for a beautiful addition to any winter holiday party. The recipe uses clear mint flavoring to give the candy a cool and refreshing taste, and the blue and white swirls mimic the look of snowflakes. These candies are also great for decorating holiday cookies or hot cocoa for an extra touch of sweetness.
6of 20
Cinnamon Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Light Corn Syrup, Water, Red Food Coloring
Cinnamon lovers, this recipe is for you. This Cinnamon Hard Candy is made with real cinnamon sticks, giving it a bold and spicy flavor that will warm you up from the inside out. The recipe also uses honey instead of corn syrup, which gives the candy a unique and natural sweetness. You can also add in a touch of red food coloring to give the candy a festive red hue.
7of 20
Butterscotch Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Dark Brown Sugar
If you're a fan of werther's candy, then you'll love this Butterscotch Hard Candy recipe. Made with brown sugar and butter, this candy has a rich and creamy flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The recipe also calls for salt, which balances out the sweetness and gives the candy a subtle salty kick. These candies are perfect for enjoying as a treat or for gifting to friends and family.
8of 20
Microwave Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Light Corn Syrup, Orange Oil, Food
For a quick and easy hard candy recipe, look no further than this Microwave Hard Candy recipe. All you need is a microwave-safe dish and six simple ingredients to create these delicious and colorful candies. The recipe also includes instructions for making the candy into lollipops, making them a fun and interactive treat for kids. Customize the flavors and colors to your liking and enjoy your homemade candies in a matter of minutes.
9of 20
Easy Homemade Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Water, Light Corn Syrup, Food
Looking for an easy and foolproof hard candy recipe? This Easy Homemade Hard Candy recipe is perfect for beginners. The recipe uses clear flavorings and gel food coloring, which gives the candy a vibrant and clear appearance. You can also add edible glitter for a fun and sparkly touch. This recipe also includes tips on how to prevent your candy from sticking to the pan, making the process even easier.
10of 20
Easy Old Fashioned Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Water, Corn Syrup, Oil, Food Coloring
This Easy Old Fashioned Hard Candy recipe is similar to the classic version but with a few twists. The recipe includes orange extract, which gives the candy a delicious and refreshing citrus flavor. The candy is also infused with honey, which adds a unique and natural sweetness. You can also add orange food coloring to make the candy look just as good as it tastes.
11of 20
Homemade Cinnamon Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: White Sugar, Light Corn Syrup, Water, Cinnamon Oil
This Homemade Cinnamon Hard Candy recipe is perfect for those who love a strong and spicy flavor. The recipe uses cinnamon oil, which gives the candy a potent and authentic taste. You can also add in red food coloring for a festive touch. The key to this recipe is to let the candy cool completely before breaking it into pieces, as it can be quite sticky when warm.
12of 20
Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Salt, Baking Soda, Water
While not technically a hard candy recipe, these Perfect Hard Boiled Eggs are a staple in many households and are often used in traditional Easter egg decorating. The key to getting the perfect hard-boiled egg is to cook them for exactly 10 minutes and then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This will result in firm yet tender eggs that are easy to peel.
13of 20
Hard Cinnamon Candy
Main Ingredients: Granulated White Sugar, Light Corn Syrup, Water
If you love the flavor of cinnamon but want a more intense and concentrated taste, then this Hard Cinnamon Candy recipe is for you. The recipe uses cinnamon candy oil, which gives the candy a strong and spicy flavor. You can also add in red food coloring to give the candy a fiery appearance. These candies are perfect for satisfying a cinnamon craving or for adding some heat to your favorite hot beverage.
14of 20
Perfect Hard Boiled Egg
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Cold Water
Another take on the classic hard-boiled egg, this recipe for Perfect Hard Boiled Egg uses a slightly different method. The eggs are cooked in boiling water for 12 minutes and then transferred to an ice bath. The longer cooking time results in a firmer yolk, making it easier to slice or chop for dishes like deviled eggs or egg salad. This method also works well for older eggs, which can be more difficult to peel.
15of 20
Borscht (Russian-Style Beet Soup)
Main Ingredients: Avocado Oil, Beef Stew Meat, Bay Leaf, Beef Broth
If you're looking to add some international flavor to your Beer Can Chicken dinner, then this Russian-style Borscht recipe is a must-try. Made with beets, cabbage, and potatoes, this hearty and comforting soup is perfect for those cold winter nights. The recipe also includes sour cream, which adds a tangy and creamy element to the dish. Serve with your favorite crusty bread for a complete meal.
16of 20
Russian Buttercream
Main Ingredients: Buttercream, Sweetened Condensed Milk, Unsalted Butter
This Russian Buttercream recipe is a delicious and indulgent addition to any dessert. Made with butter, condensed milk, and vanilla extract, this buttercream is rich and creamy with a hint of sweetness. You can also add in your favorite flavorings, such as chocolate, coffee, or fruit puree, for a personalized touch. Spread it on cakes, cupcakes, or use it as a filling for macarons.
17of 20
Honey Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Water, Lemon Juice, Honey
For a natural and slightly healthier option, try this recipe for Honey Hard Candy. Made with honey, sugar, and water, this candy has a sweet and floral flavor that is perfect for those who prefer a milder taste. The candy is also infused with lemon juice, which gives it a tart and refreshing twist. You can also add in edible flowers for a beautiful and unique presentation.
18of 20
Butterscotch Hard Candy(werthers candy)
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Water, Corn Syrup, Butter, Honey, Salt, Rum
Another take on the classic Butterscotch Hard Candy, this recipe uses Werther's Original candies for an extra dose of flavor. Simply melt down the candies and add in corn syrup, butter, and salt to create a smooth and creamy candy. You can also add in chopped nuts for some added crunch. These candies are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth or for gifting to loved ones.
19of 20
Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Light Corn Syrup, Water, Oil, Food Coloring
If you want to keep it simple, this recipe for Hard Candy is as basic as it gets. Made with sugar, water, and corn syrup, this candy is perfect for those who prefer a classic and straightforward taste. You can add in flavorings and food coloring to jazz up the candy, or keep it plain for a pure sugar rush. This recipe also includes tips on how to prevent your candy from crystallizing and becoming grainy.
20of 20
Strawberry Hard Candy
Main Ingredients: Syrup, Water, Strawberry Syrup, Strawberries
For a fruity and refreshing twist on the classic hard candy, try this recipe for Strawberry Hard Candy. Made with strawberry extract and food coloring, this candy has a vibrant and sweet flavor that will transport you to a summer day. You can also add in fresh chopped strawberries for a burst of real fruit flavor. This candy is perfect for enjoying as a treat or giving as a gift to friends and family.
History of Russian Hard Candy
The Origins
The origins of Russian hard candy can be traced back to the 18th century, when sugar became more readily available in Russia. The recipe for this candy was influenced by the French, who were known for their expertise in confectionery. The first Russian hard candy was made by boiling sugar and water together, creating a hard and brittle texture. It was then flavored with natural extracts such as lemon, mint, and cinnamon. This simple yet delicious candy quickly became a favorite among the Russian nobility.
Russian Hard Candy Today
Today, Russian hard candy is still a beloved treat in Russia and is widely available in stores and markets. However, the traditional recipe has evolved and now includes a wider range of flavors such as chocolate, fruit, and even vodka-infused varieties. It is also a popular souvenir for visitors to Russia, with many tourists bringing back boxes of these colorful and flavorful candies as gifts for friends and family.
The Recipe
Ingredients
To make your own Russian hard candy, you will need:
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup corn syrup
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 tsp flavoring extract (such as lemon, mint, or vanilla)
Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and corn syrup. Place over medium-high heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to medium and attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan.
Continue to cook the mixture, without stirring, until the thermometer reaches 310°F.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and flavoring extract of your choice. If using food coloring, add a few drops at this point and stir until well combined.
Pour the mixture onto a greased baking sheet and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes.
Once the candy is cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife or scissors to cut it into small, bite-sized pieces.
Let the candy cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it in wax paper for gifting.
Tips for Success
To prevent the sugar from burning, do not stir the mixture once it comes to a boil.
Use a candy thermometer to ensure the candy reaches the correct temperature for a perfect texture.
Be careful when working with hot sugar as it can cause burns.
Experiment with different flavorings and food colorings for a variety of delicious and colorful candies.
With this professional and well-organized recipe, you can now make your own Russian hard candy at home. Enjoy this timeless treat and share it with your loved ones!