Making Salt Water Taffy – A Sweet History and Process

Salt water taffy is a type of soft, chewy candy that has been a popular treat in seaside towns across the United States, particularly on the Atlantic coast. Despite its name, salt water taffy does not contain seawater but some confectioners do use salty water. The origin of its name and the candy itself are subjects of both fact and folklore.

Historical Background

Salt water taffy traces its origins to the late 19th century in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The most popular legend about its name involves a candy store owner, David Bradley, whose shop was flooded during a storm in 1883. His taffy stock was soaked with salty seawater. When a young girl asked if he had any taffy for sale, he jokingly offered her “salt water taffy.” The name stuck, and the candy became a staple of boardwalk confectioneries.

Ingredients

The basic ingredients of salt water taffy include:

• Sugar: Granulated sugar is the primary sweetener.
• Corn syrup: Provides sweetness and prevents crystallization.
• Water: Used to dissolve the sugar and corn syrup.
• Butter or Margarine: Adds richness and flavor.
• Salt: A small amount, contrary to what the name suggests.
• Cornstarch: Helps to stabilize the mixture.
• Glycerin: Keeps the taffy soft and pliable.
• Flavorings and Colorings: Various extracts and food colorings are added to create a wide range of flavors and colors.

The Taffy-Making Process

Making salt water taffy involves several steps to achieve its characteristic texture and flavor:

1. Cooking the Mixture
   • Sugar, corn syrup, water, and a small amount of salt are combined in a large pot and heated. The mixture is stirred constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
   • Once dissolved, the mixture is brought to a boil and cooked until it reaches a temperature of about 270°F (132°C), also known as the “soft crack” stage. This ensures the candy will be firm yet pliable.
2. Adding Fats and Stabilizers
   • Butter or margarine, cornstarch, and glycerin are added to the hot mixture. These ingredients contribute to the taffy’s smooth, creamy texture.
3. Cooling and Flavoring
   • The hot taffy mixture is poured onto a marble slab or a large cooling surface. As it cools slightly, flavorings and colorings are added.
   • Traditional flavors include vanilla, chocolate, and fruit flavors like strawberry, lemon, and orange. More modern varieties may include unique combinations like root beer, watermelon, and even maple bacon.
4. Pulling the Taffy
   • Once the mixture is cool enough to handle, it is pulled. This is a critical step in taffy making. Pulling aerates the candy, giving it a lighter texture and making it chewy. The candy is repeatedly stretched and folded, often by hand or using a mechanical taffy puller.
   • Pulling also integrates the flavors and colors evenly throughout the taffy.
5. Shaping and Cutting
   • After pulling, the taffy is shaped into long ropes. It is then cut into bite-sized pieces.
   • Each piece is traditionally wrapped in wax paper to prevent sticking and to keep it fresh.

Cultural and Regional Significance

Salt water taffy is closely associated with coastal areas, particularly in New Jersey. It became a popular souvenir for visitors to seaside resorts, with many small candy shops offering a wide variety of flavors. The colorful, individually wrapped pieces became iconic symbols of American seaside vacations.

Modern Variations

Today’s salt water taffy comes in an extensive array of flavors and colors. Some confectioners have experimented with gourmet versions, using natural flavors and organic ingredients. Despite these innovations, the traditional methods and nostalgic appeal of salt water taffy remain largely unchanged.

Fun Facts

• Myth of Salt Water: Despite the name, the recipe for salt water taffy doesn’t actually call for seawater. The “salt water” aspect is more of a historical nod to its coastal origins.
• Longevity: Properly wrapped and stored taffy can stay fresh for several weeks.
• Popularity: Salt water taffy remains a popular treat at amusement parks, boardwalks, and candy stores, especially in places like Atlantic City, Ocean City, and other coastal towns.

Salt water taffy is a quintessential American candy with roots in seaside towns and a history rich with anecdote and tradition. Its unique texture, wide variety of flavors, and colorful appearance have made it a beloved treat for generations. Whether enjoyed on a boardwalk or as a nostalgic treat, salt water taffy continues to delight candy lovers with its sweet, chewy charm.