National Hard Candy Day is a day for all the sweet tooths and sugar lovers out there! Today, we celebrate this sugary holiday by indulging in our favorite hard candy. But there is more to National Hard Candy Day than just eating sweets. Learn more about this sweet delicacy and how to celebrate its namesake day in style.
History of Hard Candy
The amazing history of hard candy takes us through centuries of sweet treats that have become beloved by many around the world. From the 13th century, when crystallized sugar candy was being prepared and sold in countries rich in sugar cane, to John Millar starting a bakery in Leith and producing liquorice and blackcurrant hard candy in 1844, hard candy has been a staple of the confectionery world.
As we move into the 1900s, Chikkis (a type of sugared nut) became popular in what is now India and Pakistan. Fast-forward to 1947 when a pharmacist invented the first candy-making machine, and we’re right where we are today!
Today, National Hard Candy Day is celebrated around the world as a sweet way to enjoy delicious treats. Whether you’re just enjoying your favorite hard candy or making your own, it’s a day to indulge in a sweet treat that has been around for centuries!
6 Delicious Recipes for Homemade Hard Candies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth! Homemade hard candies are a great way to indulge your cravings without skimping on flavor. Let's take a look at some delicious recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
1. Peppermint Hard Candy by Taste of Home

Do you want to make your own hard candy for the holidays? Try this delicious peppermint-vanilla recipe from Taste of Home! This simple recipe combines the fresh taste of peppermint with the sweetness of vanilla to create an irresistible combination.
Perfect for gifting or simply indulging yourself, these homemade hard candies will be sure to please everyone on your list! Plus, making your own candy is a fun and rewarding activity that you can enjoy with family and friends.
2. Soft and Chewy Butterscotch Hard Candies by Pastry Chef Online
If you have a sweet tooth and can’t resist a crunchy, buttery treat, then you’ll love making your own homemade butterscotch hard candies! With just a few tools and a little patience while they cool, you can make these delicious treats in no time.
Made with simple ingredients like granulated sugar, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, Kosher salt and heavy cream, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. You probably already have all the necessary ingredients in your pantry!
3. Sour Lemon Drop by Imperial Sugar
Sour Lemon Drops are a timeless classic when it comes to hard candies. They have the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making them an irresistible snack. Whether you're looking for a little pick-me-up or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, Sour Lemon Drops are the perfect choice.
These homemade treats are easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients. Best of all, they're sure to be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike!
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