Making hard candy ??

[Moxie]

I want to make some hard candy for Christmas gifts but I'm having trouble finding the flavored oils locally. Is there a reason I can't use extract?

[2cents]

I know that flavoring chocolate needs oil based but I wonder if hard candy (sugar) has the same requirement. Extracts tend to have alcohol instead of the oil so that may be a factor to consider. I wouldn't think the alcohol instead of the oil would make that much difference. I have also heard that candy requires a more pronounced flavor and oils like Lorann are good for that. The store extracts may not be as concentrated. I want to make some candy for the holidays too so I'd like to know what you can find out. :)

[BeckyFL]

Did you try Michael's (if you have one)?

[Moxie]

Did you try Michael's (if you have one)?

 

 

Yes, but all they have is mint and cinnamon. The grocery store has a ton of fun extracts (grapefruit, butterscotch, etc.).

[dangermom]

Extracts are not as concentrated. You usually do have to order the oils unless you live in a city large enough to have a baking/candy supplies store. I think it's worth trying the extracts in a batch--it's not like candy is made of expensive ingredients. :001_smile:

[BeckyFL]

Yes, but all they have is mint and cinnamon. The grocery store has a ton of fun extracts (grapefruit, butterscotch, etc.).

 

Ours had them in boxed sets. http://www.michaels.com/Candy-Flavoring-Set/bk0098,default,pd.html?start=35&cgid=products-bakeware-candymaking

[AndyJoy]

My Walmart actually has a bunch of Lorann flavoring oils in the Christmas section by the empty tins. I saw grape, raspberry, root beer, mint, orange, and several more.