The Real Story Of Candy Canes
December 9, 2023
source: Pexels
When it comes to Christmas treats, one iconic delight immediately comes to mind: the beloved candy cane. These red and white striped confections have become synonymous with the holiday season, adorning Christmas trees, filling stockings, and delighting taste buds with their peppermint sweetness. But have you ever wondered about the origin of this festive treat and how it became associated with Christmas?
Contrary to popular belief that candy canes are shaped like a letter ‘J’ to represent Jesus, and the colors symbolize purity and Christ’s stripes, the true story is refreshingly straightforward. The roots of the candy cane can be traced back to the 17th century when sugar, thanks to trade with the “New World,” became more widely available in Europe. Enterprising confectioners began crafting hard candy sticks, a novelty at the time when anything sweet was considered a special treat, often reserved for festive occasions like Christmas.
During the advent season, parishes began distributing these hard candy sticks to children to keep them quiet during church services. To add a touch of whimsy, the sticks were often bent at one end to resemble a shepherd’s crook, and by extension, a bishop’s crosier. Little did they know that this simple candy would go on to become a timeless symbol of Christmas cheer.
The original candy canes were a feast for the eyes, serving as edible decorations. However, they lacked the distinct flavor we associate with modern-day candy canes. It wasn’t until the 1920s that the iconic peppermint flavor and signature red stripes were introduced. This addition not only enhanced the taste but also transformed candy canes into the festive delight we know and love today.
If you’re feeling inspired by the rich history of candy canes and want to add a personal touch to your holiday celebrations, why not try making your own? Crafting homemade candy canes is a delightful activity that brings joy to both the creator and the eventual consumer.
To make your own candy canes, you’ll need simple ingredients like sugar, water, corn syrup, and peppermint extract. Start by combining these ingredients in a saucepan and heating the mixture until it reaches the hard-crack stage. Then, carefully shape the hot candy into cane-like forms, adding red stripes for that classic holiday look.
While making candy canes at home requires a bit of skill and precision, the effort is undoubtedly worth the reward. Imagine the satisfaction of hanging your handmade candy canes on the Christmas tree or sharing them with loved ones as thoughtful, homemade gifts.
Whether you choose to indulge in store-bought candy canes or embark on the adventure of making your own, these festive treats will continue to hold a special place in our hearts and our holiday celebrations.