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Kentucky Cream Pull Candy

Kentucky Cream Pull Candy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 50 pieces
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Butter for greasing surface and hands

Substitution Tips:

  • You can use silicone mats if you don’t have a marble slab.
  • Try almond or peppermint extract for a flavor variation

Instructions
 

Prepare Your Workspace

  • Butter a marble slab or large baking sheet. Also, butter your hands in advance to prepare for the pulling stage. Tip: Have all tools ready ahead of time—you’ll need to work quickly once it’s time to pull.

Cook the Candy

  • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, cream, corn syrup, and salt. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Tip: Use a wet pastry brush to wipe down the sides of the pot to prevent crystallization.
  • Bring to a boil and cook without stirring until the temperature reaches 260°F (hard ball stage) on a candy thermometer. Tip: Accuracy is key—don’t guess on temperature.

Add Flavor and Cool

  • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the hot candy onto your prepared surface and let it cool for 5–7 minutes, just until it’s cool enough to handle. Tip: Don’t wait too long, or it will harden too much to pull.

Pull the Candy

  • Once cool, begin pulling the candy by stretching and folding it over itself repeatedly. Tip: Pull for 10–15 minutes until the candy is lighter in color and becomes stiff.

Shape and Cut

  • Quickly shape the pulled candy into ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces. Tip: Use greased kitchen scissors or a sharp knife.

Cure the Candy

  • Leave the candy uncovered at room temperature for several hours or overnight. Tip: This resting period gives the candy its signature creamy interior.

Notes

  • Thermometer is a Must: A candy thermometer ensures perfect texture.
  • Work Quickly: Candy firms up fast; prep tools and space before starting.
  • Cool Hands: If your hands get too warm, run them under cold water and re-butter.
  • Flavor Variations: Add extracts like peppermint, almond, or maple for seasonal twists.