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Homemade Candy Corn

A simple and rewarding recipe for making classic candy corn at home, perfect for fall or Halloween.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Stovetop
  • silicone mat optional, for rolling dough
  • Parchment paper
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup powdered sugar for texture
  • 2.5 tablespoons nonfat powdered milk for smoother texture
  • 0.125 teaspoon kosher salt to balance sweetness

Wet Ingredients

  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar main sweetener
  • 0.333 cup light corn syrup for chewiness and shine
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for richness
  • 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract for flavor

Coloring

  • red liquid food coloring
  • yellow liquid food coloring

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, nonfat powdered milk, and kosher salt. Set aside.
  • In a small saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and unsalted butter over medium heat.
  • Stir until butter is melted and mixture is smooth. Bring to a gentle boil and boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar mixture to the hot liquid, stirring until a thick dough forms.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly powdered sugar-dusted surface or silicone mat. Divide into three equal portions.
  • Knead a few drops of yellow food coloring into one portion until evenly colored. Knead a few drops of red food coloring into another portion until evenly colored. Leave the third portion white.
  • Roll each colored portion into a long rope, about 1/2 inch in diameter.
  • Lightly press the three ropes together side-by-side (white in the middle, yellow and red on the sides).
  • Gently roll over the combined ropes to help them adhere and create a classic candy corn shape.
  • Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the combined ropes into 1/2 inch pieces.
  • Lay the candy corn pieces on parchment paper and let them set for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks. Avoid refrigeration.