Description
Boston Baked Beans Candy is a classic American treat, known for its crunchy, sweet candy shell and a savory roasted peanut center. Despite the name, this candy has nothing to do with actual baked beans—its name comes from its resemblance to the traditional Boston baked beans dish. These nostalgic candies offer the perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, making them a favorite snack for all ages.
Ingredients
- 2 cups roasted peanuts (unsalted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red food coloring (optional, for authentic look)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Prepare the Peanuts:
Place the roasted peanuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and set aside.Make the Candy Coating:
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.Cook the Syrup:
Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook until it reaches the soft-crack stage (270°F / 132°C) on a candy thermometer.Add Flavor & Color:
Remove the syrup from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a few drops of red food coloring.Coat the Peanuts:
Quickly pour the hot syrup over the roasted peanuts, stirring constantly to coat them evenly.Cool and Separate:
Spread the coated peanuts back onto the parchment paper. Allow them to cool completely, then break them apart if they stick together.Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooled, transfer the candy-coated peanuts to an airtight container for storage.
Notes
- You can skip the food coloring if you prefer a natural look.
- Use a candy thermometer for precise results—this step is essential for the perfect crunchy shell.
- Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack, Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 oz
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 30mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg