Candy corn vs. fondant: unmasking the surprising similarities
What To Know
- Fondant is a soft and pliable paste, while candy corn is a hard and brittle candy.
- Fondant is made from sugar, water, and sometimes gelatin or corn syrup, while candy corn is made from sugar, corn syrup, water, and artificial flavors and colors.
Candy corn, the iconic tri-colored treat, has been a Halloween staple for generations. But have you ever wondered what it’s made of? Is candy corn made of fondant?
The Answer: No, Candy Corn is Not Made of Fondant
Contrary to popular belief, candy corn is not made of fondant. Fondant is a sugary paste made from sugar, water, and sometimes gelatin or corn syrup. It’s often used to decorate cakes and cookies because it can be molded into various shapes and colors.
Candy corn, on the other hand, is made from sugar, corn syrup, water, and artificial flavors and colors. It’s a type of hard candy that is cooked and then cut into small triangular pieces.
The Difference Between Fondant and Candy Corn
While fondant and candy corn may look similar, they have some key differences:
- Texture: Fondant is a soft and pliable paste, while candy corn is a hard and brittle candy.
- Ingredients: Fondant is made from sugar, water, and sometimes gelatin or corn syrup, while candy corn is made from sugar, corn syrup, water, and artificial flavors and colors.
- Uses: Fondant is used to decorate cakes and cookies, while candy corn is eaten as a candy.
The History of Candy Corn
Candy corn was first created in the late 1800s by George Renninger, a candy maker from Philadelphia. He originally called it “Chicken Feed Candy” because it resembled the feed given to chickens.
In the 1950s, candy corn became associated with Halloween, and it has been a popular treat ever since.
The Ingredients of Candy Corn
The main ingredients of candy corn are:
- Sugar
- Corn syrup
- Water
- Artificial flavors and colors
The artificial flavors and colors used in candy corn include:
- Yellow: Yellow 5
- Orange: Red 40 and Yellow 5
- White: Titanium dioxide
The Nutritional Value of Candy Corn
Candy corn is a high-calorie, low-nutrient food. One serving (about 35 pieces) contains:
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 0 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
The Health Effects of Candy Corn
Eating candy corn in moderation is unlikely to have any negative health effects. However, eating too much candy corn can lead to weight gain and tooth decay.
The Future of Candy Corn
Candy corn is a classic Halloween treat that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is likely to remain a popular treat for many years to come.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. What is the main ingredient in candy corn?
The main ingredient in candy corn is sugar.
2. What is the difference between fondant and candy corn?
Fondant is a soft and pliable paste, while candy corn is a hard and brittle candy.
3. What are the artificial flavors and colors used in candy corn?
The artificial flavors and colors used in candy corn include Yellow 5, Red 40, and Titanium dioxide.
4. Is candy corn a healthy food?
No, candy corn is not a healthy food. It is a high-calorie, low-nutrient food.
5. Can eating too much candy corn cause health problems?
Yes, eating too much candy corn can lead to weight gain and tooth decay.
6. Is candy corn vegan?
No, candy corn is not vegan. It contains artificial colors that are derived from animals.
7. Is candy corn gluten-free?
Yes, candy corn is gluten-free. It does not contain any wheat, barley, or rye.
8. Is candy corn kosher?
Yes, candy corn is kosher. It is certified kosher by the Orthodox Union.
9. What is the shelf life of candy corn?
Candy corn has a shelf life of about 1 year.
10. How should candy corn be stored?
Candy corn should be stored in a cool, dry place.
