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The Boat Shed Kitchen

Homemade Saltwater Taffy

This homemade saltwater taffy recipe creates chewy, stretchy bites of sweetness with just a handful of pantry staples. You can flavor it any way you like—vanilla, peppermint, lemon—and tint it with cheerful colors for a playful homemade candy experience. It’s perfect for gifting, parties, or a rainy-day kitchen adventure.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Cooling + Pulling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 40 small taffies
Calories: 50
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2/3 cup light corn syrup
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or other flavoring
  • Food coloring optional

Method
 

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Butter hands and tools.
  2. In saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt.
  3. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Attach thermometer.
  4. Cook without stirring until mixture reaches 250°F.
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in butter, vanilla, and food coloring.
  6. Pour onto baking sheet. Cool slightly.
  7. See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/homemade-saltwater-taffy/

Notes

  • Use gloves or wait a bit longer to cool if you’re sensitive to heat.
  • Add ½ tsp citrus zest with the flavoring for extra brightness.
  • Pulling is essential—it's what gives taffy its signature texture!