Homemade Bit o honey Recipe: Better Than The Original With Half The Sugar

Category: Candy

Introduction

Bit-O-Honey is a beloved American candy bar that has been delighting sweet-tooths since - Known for its chewy, honey-flavored center with crunchy almond bits, all wrapped in a smooth milk chocolate coating, it's a treat that's both nostalgic and indulgent. But like many commercial candies, it's high in sugar and contains some less-than-desirable ingredients for health-conscious consumers. Making Bit-O-Honey at home allows you to enjoy the same delicious flavor while cutting down on sugar and using higher-quality, customizable ingredients. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make with just a few simple steps!

I remember my grandfather always keeping a stash of Bit-O-Honey bars in his desk drawer. He'd offer them to me with a knowing smile, and I loved how the honey flavor melted in my mouth, leaving a satisfying aftertaste. When I decided to recreate this childhood favorite, I wanted to maintain that iconic taste but make it healthier. After several trials and tweaks, I nailed down a recipe that not only matches the original's flavor but also trims down the sugar content significantly. It's a perfect snack for both kids and adults looking for a sweet treat without the guilt.

Why Make It at Home?

Making Bit-O-Honey at home offers several advantages over store-bought versions:

• Customization: Adjust the honey flavor to your liking, whether you prefer it stronger or milder.
• Healthier Ingredients: Use natural honey instead of high-fructose corn syrup and reduce the overall sugar content.
• Cost-Effective: Making your own candy bars can be more economical in the long run.
• Dietary Flexibility: Easily adapt the recipe to accommodate gluten-free, vegan, or other dietary needs.

Personal Anecdote

One summer, I decided to make a batch of homemade Bit-O-Honey bars for a family picnic. As I was carefully melting the chocolate and preparing the honey-almond center, my niece walked into the kitchen, her curiosity piqued by the sweet aroma. She watched intently as I poured the mixture into molds and let it set. When she took her first bite, her eyes lit up. "This tastes just like the real thing!" she exclaimed. It was that moment that made all the experimentation worth it—knowing I could share a healthier version of a beloved treat with the people I care about.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:10 minutes
• **Total Time:30 minutes
• **Yield:12 candy bars

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (60g) almonds, sliced or chopped
• 1/2 cup (60g) shredded coconut (optional, for texture)

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240ml) honey (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened almond milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) salt

Chocolate Coating:

• 1 cup (200g) milk chocolate chips (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1 tbsp (15g) coconut oil (optional, for smoother coating)

Instructions

• Prepare the Honey-Almond Center:

• In a medium saucepan, combine honey, almond milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard-ball stage) on a candy thermometer. This ensures the center will set properly.

  • Remove from heat and quickly stir in the almonds and shredded coconut (if using). The mixture will start to set almost immediately, so work fast to ensure even distribution.

• Set the Center:

• Pour the honey-almond mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or into a silicone candy mold. Let it cool and set at room temperature for about 10 minutes until it's firm but still pliable.

• Form the Candy Bars:

• Once set, use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to cut the mixture into desired bar shapes. For a more authentic look, you can use a candy bar mold.

• Melt the Chocolate Coating:

• In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. If using coconut oil, stir it in once the chocolate is fully melted to create a glossier and easier-to-spread coating.

• Coat the Candy Bars:

• Dip each honey-almond bar into the melted chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly. Tap off excess chocolate by gently tapping the fork against the side of the bowl.

• Set the Chocolate:

• Place the chocolate-coated bars on a parchment-lined tray. Let them set in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes until the chocolate is hard.

Storage Instructions

• Short-Term Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Long-Term Storage: For longer shelf life, keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Replace honey with a sugar-free alternative like monk fruit syrup and use dark chocolate for a lower sugar content.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey mixture for a spicy kick.
• Smoky Version: Incorporate a drizzle of smoked honey into the mixture for a unique flavor profile.
• Vegan Version: Use dairy-free chocolate and replace honey with maple syrup to accommodate vegan dietary preferences.

Special Equipment

• Candy Thermometer
• Double Boiler or Microwave-Safe Bowl
• Silicone Candy Molds (optional)
• Parchment-Lined Baking Sheet

Pro Tips

• Temperature Control: Accurately reaching the hard-ball stage (300°F) is crucial for the honey center to set properly. Use a candy thermometer for precision.
• Quick Stirring: After adding almonds to the honey mixture, stir rapidly to prevent the mixture from setting before the almonds are evenly distributed.
• Chocolate Tempering: For a professional finish, temper the chocolate by heating it to 105°F (40°C) and cooling it to around 82°F (28°C) before using it as a coating.

Nutritional Comparison (Per Serving)

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones?
  Yes, you can use fresh almonds and natural honey for a more wholesome version.
• What can I do if the honey center turns out too hard?
  If the center is too hard, you can re-melt it by heating it gently with a little more almond milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
• How do I make it last longer?
  Store the homemade bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prolong freshness.
• Can I scale the recipe for large batches?
  Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredients proportionally to make as many bars as you need.
• What if I don't have a candy thermometer?
  While a candy thermometer is preferred for accuracy, you can test the mixture by dropping a small amount into cold water. If it forms a hard ball that doesn't flatten when removed from the water, it's ready.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a sweet snack on its own or paired with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Use as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for a delicious treat.
• Include in gift baskets or wrap individually for party favors.

Conclusion

This homemade Bit-O-Honey recipe offers a healthier, customizable alternative to the classic candy bar while maintaining its iconic flavor and texture. With reduced sugar content and the option to use higher-quality ingredients, it's a treat you can feel good about enjoying and sharing. Give it a try and experience the nostalgic taste of Bit-O-Honey with a modern, wholesome twist!