Old-Fashioned Christmas Candy Journey

Christmas is a time when nostalgia sweeps over us. One of the most heartwarming trips down memory lane is through the taste of old-fashioned Christmas candies. These timeless sweets bring back memories of simpler times, family gatherings, and holiday cheer. From the crackling sound of unwrapping a ribbon candy to the cool minty taste of peppermint bark, these candies have a special place in our hearts and our traditions.

History of Old-Fashioned Christmas Candy

The tradition of Christmas candy dates back centuries, evolving from simple, handmade sweets to the diverse array of confections we enjoy today. In the Victorian era, it was common to hang sugar plums and other treats on Christmas trees. These early candies were often homemade, and crafted from sugar, nuts, and fruits. Over time, as candy-making techniques advanced, a wider variety of Christmas-specific candies emerged, each with its unique story and method of preparation.

Popular Old-Fashioned Christmas Candies

Ribbon Candy

Ribbon candy is a classic that graced many a holiday table in the past. This beautiful confection, known for its vibrant colors and intricate designs, is made by heating sugar syrup to a precise temperature, and then pulling and twisting it into thin, ribbon-like shapes. Its delicate, crispy texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite during the festive season.

Peppermint Bark

No list of nostalgic Christmas treats would be complete without mentioning peppermint bark. This delightful candy combines layers of rich chocolate and white chocolate, generously sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies. The contrast of the creamy chocolate and the refreshing peppermint creates a holiday flavor explosion that is hard to resist.

Candy Canes

Candy canes are perhaps the most iconic Christmas candy. Created in the 17th century, they were shaped like a shepherd’s crook to symbolize the shepherds who visited baby Jesus. Today, their peppermint flavor and red-and-white stripes are synonymous with Christmas cheer.

Peanut Brittle

Peanut brittle is a crunchy, sweet treat that has been a holiday favorite for generations. Made from sugar, corn syrup, and peanuts, this candy is cooked to a hard crack stage, then poured and spread into thin sheets. Once cooled, it breaks into irregular pieces, perfect for snacking.

Recipes for Making Old-Fashioned Christmas Candy at Home

Creating your own old-fashioned Christmas candy at home can be a rewarding experience. Here are some classic recipes to get you started:

Homemade Ribbon Candy

Ingredients:

2 cups sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup light corn syrup
Food coloring
Flavoring extract (e.g., peppermint, cinnamon)

Instructions:

Combine sugar, water, and corn syrup in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring until it reaches 290°F (hard-crack stage).
Remove from heat and add food coloring and flavoring extract.
Pour the mixture onto a greased marble slab or baking sheet.
Once cool enough to handle, pull and twist the candy into ribbon shapes.
Allow to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

Classic Peppermint Bark

Ingredients:

12 oz dark chocolate
12 oz white chocolate
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

Instructions:

Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.
Spread the melted dark chocolate evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Chill in the refrigerator until set.
Melt the white chocolate and spread it over the set dark chocolate layer.
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the top.
Chill until completely set before breaking into pieces.

Where to Find Old-Fashioned Christmas Candy

For those who prefer to indulge in these nostalgic treats without the hassle of making them, there are plenty of options to explore.

Local Candy Shops

Check out your local candy shops or specialty stores. Many of them stock traditional Christmas candies, especially during the holiday season. Support small businesses while satisfying your sweet tooth!

Online Retailers

Numerous online retailers specialize in old-fashioned candies. Websites like Amazon, CandyStore.com, and OldTimeCandy.com offer a wide selection of nostalgic treats that can be delivered straight to your door.

Farmer’s Markets and Holiday Fairs

During the holiday season, farmers’ markets and holiday fairs often feature stalls selling homemade candies. These venues are great places to find unique and freshly made treats.

Conclusion

Old-fashioned Christmas candy is more than just a treat; it’s a cherished part of our holiday heritage. Whether you’re making these sweets at home or buying them from your favorite store, they add a touch of nostalgia and joy to the festive season.

Ready to bring these timeless treats into your home? Start making your own or explore the many ways to purchase them. And if you need a little extra help, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts for personalized advice and recommendations.

Learn more about the best old-fashioned Christmas candies and how to make them by signing up for our newsletter or booking a call with one of our candy specialists today!