Maple candy, also known as maple taffy, is one of the most popular products made from the syrup. According to Native American legend, squirrels are the inventors of this enjoyable sweet. Maple branches would snap under the weight of heavy snow. Sap dripped from the broken limbs onto the snow. Squirrels would then devour the tasty snow sap. Natives took the hint and poured the sap over a ball of snow which came to be known as sugar wax.
Traditionally, the treat is eaten with coffee or tea, donuts and sour pickles. If sour pickles and candy do not sound like an appealing snack, feel free to try it on it’s own first. Though the dessert is fairly well known in syrup producing regions of the northeast states and Canada, many Americans are completely unfamiliar with the food.
Homemade Process
Making this treat is fairly simple for those who want to attempt a homemade version. Pour boiling maple syrup onto snow. The syrup hardens in the snow forming toffee. Roll this hardened snow around a stick or a fork, and it is ready to enjoy.
Where to Buy
For those who are less ambitious and would rather purchase the treat than stand in the snow and make it. If you live in a northern state or Canada, you should have no trouble buying the candy from a local store. A convenient way for others to enjoy it is by purchasing it online. Web Sites such as michiganmaplesyrup.net offer a wide variety of maple sugar candy from which to choose.
Gifting Candy
Edible gifts are usually loved by the recipient. Maple taffy is a sweet treat that shows thoughtful originality. Chocolate and fruit are typical foods that do not demonstrate any creativity. Sugar on snow, as it is often called in the states, is unique and often surprising as many Americans have not had the pleasure of even tasting this treat. A fun way to send the candy is in gift baskets, which can also be purchased from the internet. Show that you care about someone without going through any more trouble than browsing the Web. Sending sweetness could not be any easier.
Health Matters
Maple sugar candy is an occasional treat. It is very high in sugar and carbohydrates. Every candy maker will have a slightly different formula. The average calorie count for a handful of candies is about 200. This said, however, the sweet treat has a relatively low amount of processing done to it. You can find candy makers who create organic maple taffy. As a natural based dessert, it is a delicious indulgence.
Taste for Yourself
If you have never had the pleasure of tasting maple candy, take a look online and order a small batch. If you enjoy maple syrup on pancakes, you will most likely enjoy this sugar on snow. You can find it chocolate coated, in fruit flavors and of course traditional plain. With such variety available, you are sure to find a treat that fits your sweet tooth.
