Kentucky Cream Pull Candy Recipe: A Classic Sweet Treat

If you’re looking for a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth candy, Kentucky Cream Pull Candy is the perfect recipe to try. Known for its smooth, creamy texture and buttery flavor, this candy is made by combining simple ingredients like granulated sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup. The real magic happens when the hot mixture is pulled by hand, transforming it into a glossy, soft, and chewy treat. Whether you’re looking to make a homemade gift or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, this candy is a fun, hands-on recipe that will bring joy to anyone who tastes it.

The process of pulling the candy is what gives it its signature texture, so don’t be afraid to get your hands a little sticky. This treat is perfect for special occasions, holiday gifting, or simply enjoying with family and friends. If you’re unfamiliar with candy-making, don’t worry! The steps are simple to follow, and with a candy thermometer on hand, you’ll have perfect pull candy every time.

For more candy inspiration, check out Old-Fashioned Toffee Recipe and How to Use a Candy Thermometer for even more sweet creations!

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Kentucky Cream Pull Candy Recipe: Homemade Sweetness

Author: Sarah White

Print Recipe

Description

Kentucky Cream Pull Candy is a classic, creamy treat that’s fun to make and even more delicious to eat. With its smooth texture and buttery flavor, this homemade candy is made by cooking sugar, cream, and corn syrup to the perfect temperature before pulling the mixture by hand. The result is a soft, chewy candy that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying with friends and family.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Butter (for greasing)

Instructions

Prepare the Surface: Generously butter a marble slab, countertop, or large baking sheet. You’ll need this surface to pour the hot candy mixture onto once it’s ready. Also, butter a bench scraper or your hands for the pulling process later.
Cook the Mixture: In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, heavy cream, corn syrup, and salt. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.

Heat to the Right Temperature: Continue cooking the mixture, but do not stir once the sugar has dissolved. Let it cook until it reaches 260°F (hard ball stage) on a candy thermometer. This is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
Remove from Heat: Once the mixture has reached the desired temperature, remove it immediately from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour and Cool: Carefully pour the hot candy onto your prepared surface. Allow it to cool until it is safe enough to handle but still pliable—typically a few minutes.

Pull the Candy: Begin pulling the candy by hand or using a buttered bench scraper. Stretch, fold, and twist the candy repeatedly for about 10–15 minutes, or until it becomes opaque and creamy in color.
Shape and Cut: Once the candy starts to harden and holds its shape, quickly stretch it into a long rope. Using buttered scissors or a knife, cut the candy into bite-sized pieces.
Cool Completely: Allow the candies to cool completely at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container lined with wax paper to prevent sticking.

Notes

Candy Thermometer: Make sure to use a candy thermometer to achieve the correct temperature of 260°F for the perfect consistency.

Butter the Surface Generously: Grease your marble slab, countertop, or baking sheet well to prevent the candy from sticking during the cooling process.

Pulling Technique: Be patient with the pulling process—it may take 10–15 minutes, but this is key to achieving the creamy, opaque texture.

Storage: Store the finished candy in an airtight container lined with wax paper to prevent it from sticking together.

Customization: You can add different flavorings, like almond or maple extract, or fold in chopped nuts for a personalized twist.

Advanced Techniques to Enhance Your Kentucky Cream Pull Candy

1. Ensure Precise Temperature Control

The key to perfect pull candy lies in reaching the correct temperature. A candy thermometer is a must-have tool. Ensure that the mixture is heated to 260°F (the hard ball stage). Going over or under this temperature can result in a candy that’s either too soft or too hard. For best results, use a digital thermometer for precise readings.

2. Experiment with Flavors

While vanilla extract is the classic choice, you can easily customize your pull candy by adding different flavor extracts. Try using almond extract for a nutty twist, or maple extract for a fall-inspired variation. Just be sure to add the flavoring at the end, after removing the mixture from the heat, to preserve its aromatic properties.

3. Incorporate Nuts for Extra Texture

If you like a bit of crunch in your candies, consider folding in finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts once the candy mixture is cooled slightly but still pliable. This will add texture and a lovely nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy candy.

4. Color Your Candy

For a festive touch, consider adding food coloring to the candy. Once you’ve removed the candy from the heat and it’s cooled enough to handle, divide it into sections and add a few drops of food coloring to each. Pull the colored sections separately, then twist them together for a marbled effect. It’s a great way to make the candy look even more vibrant and fun.

5. Experiment with Different Pulling Techniques

If you’re looking for a unique texture or pattern, experiment with your pulling technique. Instead of the traditional stretch-and-fold, try twisting the candy as you pull it. This can result in an interesting ribbon-like texture. The key is to pull and fold consistently until the candy becomes opaque and gains a smooth, satiny finish.

See more advanced recipes at cookingwhite.com

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

1. Storing Pull Candy at Room Temperature

After the candy has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container to prevent it from becoming too sticky. Lining the container with wax paper will help keep the pieces separated and prevent them from sticking together. Properly stored, the candy will last for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.

2. Freezing Pull Candy

For longer storage, you can freeze the candy. Wrap each piece individually in wax paper, and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. The candy will remain fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

3. Keep the Candy Soft

If your candy becomes too hard, place a slice of bread in the container with the candy. The bread will release moisture, which will help soften the candy. This trick can also work for any leftover batches that may have been stored for too long.

4. Prevent Stickiness in Humid Weather

Humidity can cause the candy to become too soft and sticky. To keep the candy from becoming a gooey mess, make sure to store it in a cool, dry place, and keep the container tightly sealed. You can also try adding a bit more corn syrup next time to make the candy more resilient in humid conditions.

5. Reviving Stale Candy

If the candy has hardened too much and lost its chewy texture, don’t toss it! Gently heat it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a warm oven for a few minutes. This will help restore its soft, pliable texture.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

1. Make the Candy Dairy-Free

For a dairy-free version of Kentucky Cream Pull Candy, substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or almond cream. Keep in mind that using non-dairy cream may alter the flavor slightly, but it still produces a delicious candy.

2. Sugar-Free Pull Candy

If you’re looking to make a sugar-free version of this candy, consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. These alternatives will mimic the sweetness of sugar but with fewer calories. Just be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations on how to use them in candy recipes, as some substitutes may not behave the same as sugar.

3. Nut-Free Option

This recipe is naturally nut-free, making it safe for those with nut allergies. However, be sure to check all ingredient labels to ensure no cross-contamination with nuts, especially if you’re using a store-bought butter substitute.

4. Vegan Substitutions

For a fully vegan Kentucky Cream Pull Candy, swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or another plant-based cream alternative. Additionally, check that the corn syrup and vanilla extract are vegan-friendly (some vanilla extracts may contain alcohol derived from non-vegan sources).

5. Gluten-Free Candy

This recipe is already gluten-free, as it doesn’t include any wheat-based ingredients. However, ensure that any added flavorings or mix-ins, such as extracts or food coloring, are certified gluten-free.

FAQs About the Recipe

1. What is the ‘hard ball stage’ in candy making?

The ‘hard ball stage’ occurs at 260°F on a candy thermometer. At this temperature, the candy mixture forms a firm, but pliable ball when dropped into cold water. This stage is crucial for achieving the right consistency for pull candy.

2. Can I use a regular thermometer instead of a candy thermometer?

While you can use a regular kitchen thermometer, a candy thermometer is specifically designed for high temperatures and gives a more accurate reading. It also usually clips onto the side of the pan, making it easier to monitor the temperature.

3. Why isn’t my candy turning opaque?

If the candy doesn’t turn opaque while pulling, it may not have been pulled enough or cooled enough before you started. Make sure the candy is still pliable and just slightly cool to the touch before beginning to pull it. If it’s too hot or too cold, it may not achieve the right texture.

4. Can I use a stand mixer to pull the candy?

While pulling the candy by hand is traditional, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to pull the candy if you want to save time. Just make sure the candy is cool enough to handle before placing it in the mixer.

5. Can I make Kentucky Cream Pull Candy without a marble slab?

Yes! If you don’t have a marble slab, a large buttered baking sheet or countertop works just as well. The key is to use a surface that is cool and non-stick to allow the candy to set properly.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Kentucky Cream Pull Candy is a delightful, homemade confection that brings joy with every chewy bite. Whether you’re looking to revisit a family tradition or make a new one, this candy is a fun and rewarding treat to make from scratch. The act of pulling the candy gives it its signature texture and offers a hands-on experience that’s both relaxing and satisfying.

The beauty of this candy lies in its simplicity, allowing you to experiment with different flavors, colors, and mix-ins. It’s a perfect gift for holidays or a sweet addition to any celebration. Once you get the technique down, you can impress your friends and family with your candy-making skills, all while enjoying a treat that’s far superior to store-bought options.

So, roll up your sleeves, get out that candy thermometer, and create your very own batch of Kentucky Cream Pull Candy. With its sweet, creamy flavor and nostalgic charm, it’s sure to be a hit!