There’s something wonderfully nostalgic and comforting about homemade candy, isn’t there? When I was growing up, Kentucky Cream Candy was always a special treat. This delectable sweet, with its origins in the Bluegrass State, is a delightful blend of cream cheese, confectioners sugar, salt, vanilla, and coconut – simple ingredients that come together to create a truly unforgettable experience. As a kid, I loved helping my mom in the kitchen, especially when it came to making these delicious candies. The process, from the first step of softening the cream cheese to the final stage of rolling the candies in coconut, was always so exciting for me. And, of course, I loved the end result – a tray full of sweet, creamy candies that melted in your mouth with every bite. As an adult, I still have a soft spot for Kentucky Cream Candy. Not only does it bring back fond memories of my childhood, but it’s also a hit at parties and get-togethers. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, which is always a bonus! So, if you’re in the mood for a sweet treat and want to try your hand at making homemade candy, I highly recommend giving this Kentucky Cream Candy recipe a shot. You won’t be disappointed!
Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. vanilla
- 6 c. confectioners sugar
- finely chopped coconut
Candy Making Steps
- Put cream cheese in mixer bowl 30 minutes to soften.
- Add salt and vanilla.
- Add 2 cups sugar; beat.
- Add 2 more cups of sugar; beat.
- Add remaining sugar and beat well.
- Cover and chill in refrigerator until firm.
- Shape into small balls and roll in coconut.
- Store in a foil-lined metal box in refrigerator.
Calorie: 200
Total cooking time: 1 hour
Difficulty level: Easy
A Romp Through the Land of Kentucky Cream Candy
I have a vivid memory of my first encounter with Kentucky Cream Candy. It was at a church potluck when I was about seven, and I remember thinking, “Who put these fluffy clouds of heaven on the dessert table?” Ever since that day, I’ve been a little obsessed. And today, my friends, I’m going to share that obsession with you, as we dive into the process of making our very own Kentucky Cream Candy. Buckle up, buttercup, because it’s going to be a sweet, sweet ride.
The Unassuming Beginning
I started by scavenging the ingredients: 1 (8 oz.) pkg. of cream cheese, 1/4 tsp. salt, 1 tsp. vanilla, 6 c. confectioners sugar, and some finely chopped coconut. Nothing too outlandish, right? Well, let me tell you, these humble ingredients are about to party.
To begin, I took out the cream cheese and just like a forgotten gym membership, I let it sit idle for 30 minutes to soften in the mixer bowl. This gave me ample time to ponder life’s mysteries, like why do we park in driveways and drive on parkways?
The Sugar Rush
Next came the salt and vanilla. Once these were added, it was time to introduce the confectioners sugar. Now, I don’t know about you, but in my world, sugar has two main functions – to make things taste delicious, and to create a mess in my kitchen that rivals a snowstorm.
So, with a brave heart and a dustpan nearby, I added 2 cups of sugar to the mixer and let it beat like a drum at a rock concert. Then, I added 2 more cups and let it continue its drum solo. Finally, I added the remaining sugar and let it beat until it was well mixed. The end result? A bowl full of creamy, sugary goodness that looked like it was ready to moonwalk across my countertop.
The Chill Out Session
The next step was to cover the bowl and let it chill out in the fridge until it was firm. This, my friends, is where patience comes in. I got about as antsy as a cat near a rocking chair. But, as they say, good things come to those who wait, and this was no exception.
The Coconut Rodeo
Once the mixture was firm, it was time to shape it into small balls and roll them in the coconut. Now, if you’ve never tried to roll a sticky ball in coconut, let me tell you, it’s like trying to herd cats. But, after a few attempts (and a lot of laughter), I ended up with a tray full of little coconut-encrusted snowballs that looked as delicious as they tasted.
The Final Act
The last step was to store the candies in a foil-lined metal box in the refrigerator. I’m not sure why it has to be a metal box, but who am I to question tradition? Besides, it gives me an excuse to use my vintage lunchbox.
And there you have it, folks. A roller-coaster ride through the making of Kentucky Cream Candy. It’s a process that’s equal parts fun, messy, and delicious. So, why not give it a try? You just might find your new favorite dessert. And if not, at least you’ll have a good story to tell.
