Homemade Brach Butterscotch Hard Candy Brachs Butterscotch Disks Brach Candy Recipe: Better Than The Original With Half The Sugar

Category: Candy

Introduction

Brach's Butterscotch Disks are a beloved candy that has been a staple in many households for decades. Known for their smooth, creamy texture and rich, sweet butterscotch flavor, these iconic candies have captured the hearts of candy lovers of all ages. However, store-bought candies often contain high amounts of sugar, artificial flavors, and preservatives, which can be a concern for health-conscious consumers. Making homemade Brach's Butterscotch Disks allows you to enjoy the same delicious taste with the added benefits of using natural ingredients, reducing sugar content, and customizing the recipe to suit your preferences.

The original Brach's Butterscotch Disks were first introduced in the mid-20th century by the Brach's Confections company, which was founded in 1904 by Emil J. Brach. The candies quickly became popular for their unique butterscotch flavor, which is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy. Over the years, Brach's has remained a trusted name in the candy industry, but many fans of the original recipe have expressed a desire for a healthier, homemade version that still delivers the same mouthwatering experience.

Making candy at home can seem intimidating, but with the right techniques and ingredients, it can be a fun and rewarding process. This recipe not only replicates the iconic Brach's Butterscotch Disks but also offers a healthier alternative by using less sugar and natural flavorings. Whether you're a candy-making novice or an experienced chef, this recipe is designed to be easy to follow and adaptable to your dietary needs.

Why Make It at Home?

Making Brach's Butterscotch Disks at home offers several advantages over buying them from a store. For one, you can control the amount of sugar that goes into the recipe, making it a better option for those who are watching their sugar intake. Additionally, you can use natural ingredients like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar to sweeten the candy instead of relying on refined sugars.

Another benefit of making homemade Brach's Butterscotch Disks is the ability to customize the flavor. While the original recipe has a distinct butterscotch taste, you can experiment with different flavor combinations, such as adding a hint of vanilla, a touch of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of caramel to create a unique twist on the classic candy.

Moreover, making candy at home can be a fun and educational experience, especially if you're making it with family or friends. It's a great way to bond over a shared love of sweets while creating something truly special.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I tried Brach's Butterscotch Disks as a child. It was during a family road trip, and my grandfather had brought a bag of them along for the ride. The moment I unwrapped one of the shiny, golden disks and popped it into my mouth, I was hooked. The way the candy melted slowly, releasing its creamy, sweet butterscotch flavor, was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. From that day on, Brach's Butterscotch Disks became my go-to candy, and I would often sneak them from my grandfather's candy jar whenever I could.

As I grew older, however, I began to pay more attention to the ingredients in the foods I ate. I was dismayed to find that many of my favorite childhood treats, including Brach's Butterscotch Disks, contained high amounts of sugar and artificial additives. This realization sparked my interest in making my own version of the candy at home, using healthier ingredients and natural flavorings. After months of trial and error, I finally perfected a recipe that not only matched the taste of the original but also offered a healthier alternative. This recipe is the result of that journey, and I am excited to share it with you.

Recipe Details

**Prep Time:20 minutes
**Cook Time:15 minutes
**Total Time:35 minutes
Yield: Approximately 40-50 candies, depending on the size of the molds

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar (or natural sweetener of your choice, such as honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) light corn syrup (optional, but recommended for a smoother texture)
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) sea salt
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) baking soda
• 1/2 tsp (2.5g) butterscotch extract (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) vanilla extract (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or almond butter)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans)
• 1/4 cup (30g) shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup (30g) dried fruit (such as cranberries or cherries)
• 1/4 cup (30g) dark chocolate chips (for a chocolate-coated version)

Instructions

• Prepare the Molds: Before you begin making the candy, make sure you have your molds ready. Silicone candy molds work best for this recipe, as they allow the candy to set evenly and are easy to remove once the candy is hard. If you don't have silicone molds, you can also use a greased baking dish or a parchment-lined tray. However, keep in mind that the candy may not have the same smooth, rounded shape as the store-bought version.

• Combine the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, corn syrup (if using), and sea salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved. If you're using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as these sweeteners can burn more easily than granulated sugar.

• Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) on a candy thermometer. This is the hard-ball stage, which is essential for creating the hard, smooth texture of the candy.

• Remove from Heat: Once the mixture has reached the hard-ball stage, remove it from the heat and carefully stir in the unsalted butter (or dairy-free alternative). The mixture will bubble up and steam vigorously, so be cautious to avoid any splashes.

• Add Flavorings: Stir in the butterscotch extract, vanilla extract (if using), and any optional add-ins you've chosen (such as nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit). Make sure to add these ingredients quickly, as the mixture will start to set soon after it's removed from the heat.

• Pour into Molds: Pour the mixture into your prepared molds, making sure to fill each mold to the top. If you're using a greased baking dish or parchment-lined tray, pour the mixture into the dish and spread it out into an even layer.

• Allow to Set: Let the candy set and harden completely. This should take about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the candies. If you're using molds, you can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for about 5-10 minutes.

• Unmold and Enjoy: Once the candy has hardened, remove it from the molds or cut it into small squares if you used a baking dish. Your homemade Brach's Butterscotch Disks are now ready to enjoy!

Storage Instructions

• Short-Term Storage: Store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, place the candies in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Preservation Tips: To prevent the candies from sticking together, you can dust them lightly with powdered sugar or cornstarch before storing them.

Variations & Customization

• Low-Sugar Version: Replace the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that these sweeteners can affect the texture and flavor of the candy, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the candy a spicy kick.
• Smoky Version: Add a small amount of smoked sea salt or liquid smoke to the mixture for a smoky flavor.
• Vegan Version: Replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or almond butter, and ensure that the sweetener you're using is vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free Version: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you're using add-ins like nuts or dried fruit, make sure they are gluten-free.

Special Equipment

• Candy Thermometer: A candy thermometer is essential for ensuring that the mixture reaches the hard-ball stage (300°F or 150°C), which is crucial for achieving the right texture.
• Silicone Candy Molds: While not strictly necessary, silicone candy molds are highly recommended for creating the smooth, rounded shape of the original Brach's Butterscotch Disks.
• Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is needed for heating the mixture.
• Whisk or Spatula: A whisk or spatula is useful for stirring the mixture and ensuring that all ingredients are well combined.
• Optional: Baking Dish or Parchment-Lined Tray: If you don't have silicone molds, you can use a greased baking dish or a parchment-lined tray to set the candy.

Pro Tips

• Use a Candy Thermometer: A candy thermometer is crucial for ensuring that the mixture reaches the correct temperature. Without it, the candy may not set properly or could burn.
• Don't Stir Too Much: Once the mixture reaches the hard-ball stage, avoid stirring it too much, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize and give the candy a grainy texture.
• Work Quickly: After removing the mixture from the heat, work quickly to pour it into the molds and add any optional ingredients. The mixture will start to set soon after it's removed from the heat, so it's important to move fast.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones?

  • Yes! This recipe encourages the use of natural ingredients like honey, maple syrup, and unsalted butter to create a healthier version of the candy.

• What can I do if the recipe turns out too sweet or too salty?

  • If the candy turns out too sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar or natural sweetener in the next batch. If it's too salty, you can omit or reduce the amount of sea salt.

• How do I make it last longer?

  • To extend the shelf life of your homemade Brach's Butterscotch Disks, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. You can also dust them lightly with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent them from sticking together.

• Can I scale the recipe for large batches?

  • Absolutely! This recipe can be easily scaled up or down depending on your needs. Just keep in mind that larger batches may require longer cooking times and more careful monitoring to prevent burning.

• What if I don't have a candy thermometer?

  • While a candy thermometer is highly recommended for ensuring the mixture reaches the hard-ball stage, you can also test the consistency by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a cup of cold water. If it forms a hard ball that doesn't flatten when removed from the water, it's ready. If it doesn't form a hard ball, continue cooking the mixture and testing until it reaches the correct consistency.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a Treat: These homemade Brach's Butterscotch Disks are perfect as a sweet treat on their own. You can enjoy them as a quick pick-me-up or as a dessert after a meal.
• Use as a Decoration: The smooth, rounded shape of the candies makes them a great decoration for cakes, cupcakes, and other baked goods. Simply place one on top of your dessert for a touch of elegance.
• Add to Gifts: Homemade candies make thoughtful and personalized gifts. You can package them in decorative tins or jars and give them to friends and family as a special treat.
• Include in Snack Mixes: These candies can be added to snack mixes for a sweet and salty combination. Try mixing them with nuts, dried fruit, and a few chocolate chips for a tasty snack.

Conclusion

Making homemade Brach's Butterscotch Disks is a fun and rewarding process that allows you to enjoy a healthier, customizable version of a classic candy. With this recipe, you can reduce the sugar content, use natural ingredients, and experiment with different flavors to create a truly unique treat. Whether you're making them for yourself or as a gift for someone else, these candies are sure to be a hit. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade Brach's Butterscotch Disks!