Candy cigarettes are a nostalgic treat that many people remember from their childhood. While they are less common today, you can make them at home with a few simple ingredients. These sweet, chalky sticks resemble traditional cigarettes but are completely edible and fun to make. Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own homemade candy cigarettes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 to 2 tablespoons water
- Food coloring (optional)
- Cocoa powder (for an authentic “burnt” effect)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Candy Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Slowly add 1 tablespoon of water and mix until the ingredients form a thick, dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more water, but be careful not to make it too sticky.
Step 2: Shape the Candy Sticks
Lightly dust a clean surface with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Roll out the candy dough into a long, thin log, about the thickness of a real cigarette. Cut the log into 3- to 4-inch pieces to resemble cigarettes. If you want to add color, knead in a small amount of food coloring before shaping the sticks.
Step 3: Dry the Candy
Place the candy sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow them to air dry for at least 24 hours. This will help them harden and develop a firm texture similar to store-bought candy cigarettes.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
For a more realistic effect, lightly dust one end of each candy stick with cocoa powder to mimic the burnt tip of a cigarette. If desired, you can also use a fine food-safe marker to draw red or orange dots at the tip to resemble an ember.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Once the candy cigarettes have fully hardened, they are ready to be enjoyed. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for several weeks.
Conclusion
Homemade candy cigarettes are a fun and easy treat to make, whether for nostalgia or a creative DIY project. While they may not be as common as they once were, making your own allows you to enjoy this classic candy with a personal touch. Give this recipe a try and bring back a bit of sweet childhood nostalgia!