Watermelon Taffy Recipe (Chewy & Bright)

Watermelon Taffy Recipe (Chewy & Bright)

Dolce Flav

Servings

30

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Category

Oil Soluble Watermelon Flavoring

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

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon watermelon extract
  • 5–10 drops red or pink food coloring
  • Optional: powdered sugar or cornstarch for dusting

Directions

  1. Prepare Work Surface: Lightly grease a countertop or marble slab and sprinkle with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking. Set aside.

  2. 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.

  3. Cook Candy: Attach a candy thermometer and continue cooking until the mixture reaches 250°F (121°C) (firm-ball stage). Remove from heat immediately.

  4. Add Flavor and Color: Stir in watermelon extract and red/pink food coloring quickly.

  5. Pour and Cool Slightly: Pour the mixture onto the prepared surface. Let it cool just enough to handle, about 3–5 minutes.

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.