Ingredients
Honeycomb Candy Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon baking soda (sifted)
- 1 1/4 cups white granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- Pinch kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Sift the Baking Soda: Begin by sifting 1 tablespoon of baking soda into a small bowl to remove any clumps. This step ensures the baking soda will dissolve evenly during cooking.
- Prepare Your Workstation: Gather all ingredients and equipment. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and have it ready nearby. A silicone spatula will be helpful for stirring the hot mixture.
- Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a large pot or 5-quart Dutch oven, combine 1 1/4 cups sugar, 1/2 cup honey, and a pinch of kosher salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring with a silicone spatula to ensure even caramelization. Bring the temperature to 295°F (approximately 3-5 minutes) until the mixture turns a rich autumn-brown color.
- Add Vanilla and Baking Soda: Remove the pot from heat and immediately stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract followed by the sifted baking soda. The mixture will rapidly foam and expand. Continue stirring gently until the baking soda fully dissolves and the foam stabilizes.
- Pour and Cool: Quickly pour the foamy honeycomb mixture onto the prepared parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow it to cool undisturbed for about 5 minutes until completely set and hardened.
- Break and Store: After cooling, break the honeycomb into bite-sized pieces. Transfer the pieces to an airtight container to keep them crisp. Remember that moisture in the environment can cause the candy to lose its crunch over time.
Notes
- Sifting the baking soda is essential to avoid clumps, which can affect the texture of the honeycomb.
- Work quickly when adding the baking soda and pouring the mixture, as it sets fast once foamed.
- Use a candy thermometer to accurately reach 295°F for perfect caramelization.
- Store honeycomb candy in an airtight container to preserve its crispness, especially in humid environments.
- A silicone spatula works best for stirring hot sugar mixtures without melting or scratching cookware.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British