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Watermelon Taffy Recipe (Chewy & Bright)
Dolce Flav
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Oil Soluble Watermelon Flavoring
Author:
Dolce Flav
Servings
30
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
This Watermelon Taffy is chewy, sweet, and bursting with bright watermelon flavor thanks to watermelon extract. Using a classic taffy base of sugar, corn syrup, and butter, this candy is stretched and pulled to achieve the signature soft, chewy texture. Pink or red coloring gives it a vibrant, eye-catching appearance, perfect for summer parties, candy gifts, or nostalgic snacking. Quick to make at home with simple ingredients, this taffy delivers a fun, fruity candy experience similar to traditional store-bought watermelon taffy.
Ingredients
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2 cups granulated sugar
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2/3 cup light corn syrup
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1/4 cup water
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 teaspoon watermelon extract
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5–10 drops red or pink food coloring
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Optional: powdered sugar or cornstarch for dusting
Directions
Prepare Work Surface: Lightly grease a countertop or marble slab and sprinkle with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and butter. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture begins to boil.
Cook Candy: Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking until the mixture reaches 250°F (121°C) (firm-ball stage). Remove from heat immediately.
Add Flavor and Color: Stir in watermelon extract and red/pink food coloring quickly.
Pour and Cool Slightly: Pour the mixture onto the prepared surface. Let it cool just enough to handle, about 3–5 minutes.
Stretch and Pull: Grease your hands lightly with butter or oil and fold, stretch, and pull the taffy repeatedly until it becomes opaque and chewy.
Shape Taffy: Roll the taffy into ropes about ½ inch thick. Cut into 3–4 inch pieces and twist each piece. Dust lightly with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking.
Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Recipe Note
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make watermelon taffy without a candy thermometer?
Yes — but cooking by temperature is more precise. You can test by dropping a small amount in cold water; it should form a firm ball.
2. Can I make sugar-free taffy?
Yes — use a sugar substitute suitable for candy-making, but texture may differ slightly.
3. How do I get chewy taffy texture?
Stretch and pull the taffy repeatedly until it becomes opaque and soft.
4. Can I make this vegan?
Yes — use a plant-based butter substitute; the texture may be slightly different.
5. Can I flavor it differently?
Yes — substitute watermelon extract with other fruit extracts like cherry, strawberry, or blueberry.
6. Can I color it naturally?
Yes — beet juice or raspberry juice can provide a natural pink/red color.
7. How do I prevent the taffy from sticking together?
Dust with powdered sugar or cornstarch and store in an airtight container.
8. Can I make lollipops with this taffy?
Yes — roll taffy around sticks for fun watermelon lollipops.
9. Can I add sour sugar coating?
Yes — mix citric acid with powdered sugar and coat taffy pieces for a tangy twist.
10. How long does homemade taffy last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 2 weeks at room temperature.