"Nothing says maple sugar season like maple taffy on snow. A simple yet magical tradition that takes you back to your childhood with every bite." -- François
Homemade maple taffy on snow: a Quebec tradition to savor
A sugar shack treat to prepare at home
Maple taffy on snow is a staple of springtime in Quebec. Whether at the sugar shack or at home, this sweet treat is one of the most beloved gourmet traditions. With just maple syrup and a little snow, it's possible to recreate this unique and authentic experience.
A simple recipe with just one ingredient
Unlike other confections, maple taffy on snow requires no additives or thickening agents. It all depends on the precise heating of the maple syrup, which, once heated to the right temperature, transforms into a melting, sticky texture when it comes into contact with the cold snow.
Tips for a successful pull
Choosing the right syrup, monitoring the temperature, and a few simple precautions ensure a perfect texture and a rich maple flavor. A wooden spoon placed on the pan helps prevent boil-overs, while a light brush of butter on the rim of the pot helps limit foaming.
An experience to share
Whether with family or friends, preparing maple taffy on snow is a convivial and delicious experience. Once the taffy is formed, simply wrap the golden filaments around a stick and enjoy this typically Quebecois delicacy.
| 📌 General information | |
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| 🔍 Information | Details |
| ⏱️ Preparation time | 5 minutes |
| 🍳 Cooking time | 10 minutes |
| ⏲️ Total time | 15 minutes |
| 🔧 Difficulty level | Easy |
| 🍽️ Servings | 6-8 |
| 📝 Ingredients |
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| 🔧 Material |
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| 📌 Instructions |
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Tip to avoid overflows :
- Place a wooden spoon across the top of the pot . Condensation and temperature difference will reduce the foam that forms.
- Lightly grease the top rim of the pot with butter or margarine . This breaks up foam bubbles and reduces the risk of boil-over.
Additional tips
- Safety Precautions: Boiling maple syrup reaches very high temperatures. Handle carefully to avoid burns.
- Variations: For a unique twist, sprinkle the taffy with crushed walnuts, shredded coconut, or a pinch of sea salt before it hardens.
- Storage: If you have leftover taffy, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To eat, warm it gently or spread it on toast.
Frequently asked questions about maple taffy on snow
What to do if the syrup overflows from the pan?
If the syrup begins to foam and rise too high, immediately turn off the stovetop and remove the pan from the heat. This will stop the syrup from rising and prevent a boil-over that's difficult to clean. To limit this risk from the start, use a pan much larger than the amount of syrup and place a wooden spoon across the pan.
Why is my taffy too hard or too soft?
- If the taffy is too hard , the syrup was probably heated too high. You can soften it by adding a small amount of water, stirring, and testing it again on the snow.
- If the taffy is too soft , the syrup has not heated enough. Put it back on the heat for a few moments and check the temperature with a thermometer.
Can you use anything other than snow to cool taffy?
Yes! If snow is not available, an effective alternative is to fill a large dish with finely crushed ice . The important thing is that the surface is cold enough to quickly freeze the taffy without letting it sink to the bottom of the dish.
Does the syrup continue to cook after it is removed from the heat?
Yes, the syrup retains its thermal inertia and its temperature can still rise slightly. If you're aiming for very precise cooking, you can remove the pan from the heat at 114.5°C to avoid overheating.
How to clean a pot with stuck maple syrup?
Fill the pot with hot water and let it soak for a few hours. If the syrup is still stuck, bring the water to a boil with a few drops of white vinegar or lemon juice. This will help dissolve the residue without excessive scrubbing.
Can we prepare the taffy in advance?
The taffy is best freshly poured over the snow , but if you want to make it ahead of time, you can pour the cooked syrup onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it set at room temperature. You can then break it into pieces and store it in an airtight container.
What type of maple syrup makes the best maple taffy?
Amber maple syrup is often recommended for its rich flavor and balance between sweetness and intensity. Dark syrup can also be used if you prefer a stronger flavor.
What to do if the taffy sticks too much to the teeth?
If the texture is too sticky, you can try pouring the taffy onto a slightly damp surface before rolling it onto a stick. This reduces stickiness while maintaining the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
With these tips, your maple taffy will be a success every time! 🍁
🌎 Distribution of global maple syrup production
Quebec alone produces more than 72% of the world's maple syrup. Here's how production breaks down:
Quebec (72%)
Rest of Canada (10%)
United States (17%)
Rest of the world (1%)
🌟 Incredible, isn't it? Quebec maple syrup is recognized worldwide for its quality and authentic taste.
| 📊 Nutritional Values (per serving) | |
|---|---|
| Nutrient | Quantity |
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Sugars | 50 g |
| Lipids | 0 g |