Candy | Candy Recipes | SUGAR CANDY

Yummie Candy

2009-07-15T20:48:00.001-07:00

i love candy

The Sweet and Fluffy Cotton Candy

2009-02-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

The origins of cotton candy are unclear and the inventor of this confection cannot be pinpointed. However, four people have been identified and named as the inventors of the candy and they are William Morrison, Thomas Patton, Josef Delarose Lascaux and John C. Wharton.

William Morrison and John Wharton were two candy makers from Tennessee. They invented the first electric cotton candy machine and were given the patent for the cotton candy machine in the year 1899. This machine made cotton candy by melting sugar and using centrifugal force to spin the sugar and force them through tiny holes before releasing them. When they received the patent, the pair brought and presented the machine to the 1904 St. Louis World Fair.

On the other hand, Thomas Patton was experimenting with caramelized sugar and used a fork to form them into threads. He then designed a machine that utilized a gas-fired rotating plate that would spin the sugar and form them into threads. These threads were then collected and formed into a big cotton ball which is now called cotton candy. He presented the machine at the Ringling Brothers' Circus where it was a hit and sold like popcorn to children. He received a separate patent for his machine and his process for making cotton candy in 1900.

Around the same time, Josef Delarose Lascaux, was a dentist in the state of Louisiana who introduced cotton candy in his dental clinic. He, however, did not receive a patent or trademark for his cotton candy unlike the other three.

The early patented machines were found to be defective and did not last long. Some machines would break while others made loud rattling noises. The Gold Medal Products company came up with a more dependable cotton candy machine that used a spring base. This new machine contributed to the transformation of the cotton candy industry.

Cotton candy is a huge hit because it is very simple to make. The process of making it is different from the usual way candy is made. In cotton candy, sugar is melted until it is in a liquid state. The liquid sugar is then spun in the cotton candy machine. Using centrifugal force, the machine forces the liquid through and out of tiny holes. These holes form the sugar into threads and cool the liquid sugar. Once the threads of sugar are cooled, they become solid again. Afterwards, the center of the machine is full of thousands of tiny threads of sugar that are then collected by a stick. The threads adhere to the stick and the ball grows bigger as the threads stick to more threads. It is then shaped into a ball and served. Sometimes, the ball is stuffed into a plastic bag with the stick removed. Some stalls offer other flavored cotton candy and others may even give you toppings like milk powder to go with it.

Nowadays, cotton candy machines and stalls are found everywhere. You can see them in amusement parks, fairs, playgrounds and circuses. Even though its history has left a lot to be debated about, it doesn't really matter to the consumers. To them, it is still a summertime favorite because it is light, sweet and fluffy. just the way they like it.

By Michael Russell - How to Make Chocolate Candy - A Fascinating Segment of Cooking

Homemade Chocolate Candy Recipes - No More Candy Shop

2009-02-21T00:00:00.000-08:00

Some people may think that candy is only sold at the candy shop. But that's not the case because you can prepare even tastier candy recipes at home.

Here are 4 candy recipes you can prepare at home:

1. Almond Chocolate Coconut Cookies

Ingredients:

- 1 cup butter
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 4 eggs
- 4 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 cups flaked coconut
- 2 cups chopped almonds

Directions:

- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Grease cookie sheets.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Combine the flour, baking soda and salt, stir into the creamed mixture until well blended.
- Finally, stir in the chocolate chips, coconut and almonds.
- Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto the prepared cookie sheets.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Almond Coconut Chocolate Cookie Balls

Ingredients:

- 2 (1 ounce) squares unsweetened chocolate
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 cups flaked coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup whole almonds

Directions:

- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In the top half a double boiler melt the chocolate and condensed milk, stirring frequently.
- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the coconut.
- Stir in the vanilla and salt. Mix well until the coconut is completely coated.
- Drop dough by teaspoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Press one whole almond into the top of each cookie.
- Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Check at 8 minutes as the bottoms tend to burn easily.
- Remove from oven and cool.

3. Babe Ruth Bars

Ingredients:

- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup white corn syrup
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 6 cups cornflakes cereal
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2/3 cup peanuts

Directions:

- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, corn syrup, brown sugar and white sugar.
- Cook stirring occasionally until smooth.
- Remove from heat and quickly mix in the cornflakes, chocolate chips and peanuts until evenly coated.
- Press the entire mixture gently into a buttered 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

4. Candy Bar Bars

Ingredients:

- 2/3 cup butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 4 cups quick cooking oats
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 2/3 cup crunchy peanut butter

Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
- Lightly grease a 9" x 13" pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together.
- Mix in the vanilla, corn syrup and oats.
- Pat this dough into the greased pan. Bake for 15-16 minutes (don't over bake).
- Meanwhile, over low heat melt together the chocolate chips and peanut butter.

Allow the cookie base to cool slightly, and then spread the chocolate peanut butter mixture on top.

Cool completely and cut into bars.

By Lucille Green - Chocolate Candy Gift Basket - A Tasty and Easy Gift Guide

Starburst Candy

2009-02-20T00:00:00.000-08:00

You'll agree with me that sometimes it's quite difficult to make our kids happy. In fact, what you might have in mind while thinking of making them happy may actually prove to be contrary. One way of making them happy is definitely Starburst candy. The good thing about this candy is that its juicy, sweet and probably the best way for a delicious treat. In fact, you may find its different packaged types irresistible.

This name finds its roots in the opal fruits which were used in candy around 1971 in the United Kingdom. However, the story today is quite different and this name no longer portrays that image. Starburst candy is available in variety of fruit flavors such as mango, apple, strawberry etc and its also in different shapes and sizes. Nevertheless, square shape is the most common.

When it comes to decorating them, manufacturers know what it takes to get your attention and thus you'll find them hard to resist. Moreover, if you're a primary school teacher this is the only way to be that popular and favorite teachers among the kids. Have you actually tried using them in teaching? please let me not tell of the results as you already know they can work magic.

If your child's birthday is somewhere around the corner, Starburst candy will definitely help you make it the most memorable event and put that smile in your child. More so the orange flavored ones will do the trick since they're definitely the most popular among children.

By Peter Gitundu - Chocolate Candy Gift Basket - A Tasty and Easy Gift Guide

The Chocolate Candy Bar Cure For Your Heart

2009-02-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Not all the news about the things we love to eat and their effect on our health is bad, especially this study done at the University of California Health Sciences Center in San Francisco. California scientists confirm that consuming just a small bar of dark chocolate every day is good for you. It's very good for you, according to UCSF researcher Mary Engler, PhD, RN, and her research team.

Dr. Engler and her colleagues divided a pool of 21 healthy test participants into two groups. The first group was assigned the task of eating a Dove Dark Chocolate bar every day for two weeks. Dove bars are rich in cocoa, a rich source of the plant chemicals known as epicatechins. Epicatechins particularly potent antioxidants from group of compounds called plant flavonoids. Scientists believe epicatechins keep cholesterol from calcifying in blood vessels, keeping them more supple, and less at risk for clots.

The second group of test participants didn't get Dove bars but they did get dark chocolate candy. Their chocolate bars had the healthy epicatechins taken out.

Everyone who participated in the study reported to the clinic for an ultrasound evaluation of the ability of their blood vessels to open wider and relax. Blood vessel dilation is a good indication of endothelial health that maintains normal and healthy blood pressure. The Dove bar eaters experienced significant improvement in endothelial function.

Why would this be? The study doesn't prove the reason beyond any doubt, but the test participants who ate the Dove bars and enjoyed the improved blood pressure also had high concentrations of epicatechin flavonoids in their blood streams.

Dr. Engler told the press that hers was the longest-running clinical trial ever to consider the role of chocolate flavonoids in health. She said that elevated bloodstream concentrations of chocolate epicatechins triggered release of dilating and relaxing chemicals in the lining of the arteries and smaller blood vessels. Better blood flow, Dr. Engler reminded the press, is better for your heart.

By Robert Rister - Sugarless Candy Treats

Healthy Candy Choices at the Candy Store

2009-02-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

Yes you can have your cake and eat it too at least when eating candy.

There are many healthy aspects of eating certain kinds of candy. Candy stores and manufacturers are taking full advantage of this to satisfy customer demand. As consumers are looking for healthy choices and better ingredients the candy industry is responding.

Dark chocolate for example has antioxidant properties and this combined with fruits and nuts offers additional health benefits. The use of nuts that are low in saturated fats and cholesterol also contain fiber and various vitamins are clearly a healthy add. The American Peanut council reports that eating one serving of peanuts a day can reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Organic peanuts are starting to be used in candy products as well. Many of these nuts are found in the mot popular bulk candy products.

Another popular nut that is used in candy is the almond. The almond not only tastes great but also provides health benefits and helps increase candy shelf life. That is good for the US in particular California where most of the world's supply of almonds is grown. Between 1999 and 2007 almond consumption has doubled in the US. Almonds are high in vitamin E, protein, fiber and calcium and included 13 essential ingredients. They also have a reputation for lowering people's cholesterol. This is similar to peanuts which are also known to be high in protein, vitamin E, fiber and potassium.

Tree nuts such as the very popular Hazelnut are now becoming more poplar. Tree nuts are known to be packed with vitamin C. They are also loaded with antioxidants which are heart healthy.

In an effort to boost candies healthy profile, appeal to the hearts of consumers, manufactures are making healthier candy. So next time you have that sweet tooth look for healthy candy at your local candy store.

By Joel Bernstein - Sugarless Candy Treats

Favorable Chocolate Candy

2009-02-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

As a matter of fact, you can use chocolate candy to help you get better grades on a test or just better grades in general. The smell and taste of chocolate candy is a strong one that it can be used as a mental marker to help you remember things you normally wouldn't easily be able to. As an example, a study conducted on a dog where a scientist named Pavlov taught the dog to associate the ringing of a bell with feeding time. He'd ring the bell and feed the dog. In time, the ringing of that bell caused the dog to salivate. That study was a major breakthrough in our brains work; even though it was applied on a dog.

The Smell of Chocolate Candy

For example you're studying for a math test you have to remember a certain theorem, such as the Pythagorean Theorem, but you just can't seem to make it stick in your brain. However, you take out a piece of chocolate candy, let's say a chocolate candy bar, and you smell it as it reaches your mouth. You eat the chocolate but it's the smell that causes you to remember that theorem for later. The next day, you're taking the test when you forget that the rest of the candy bar was left in your backpack. It's all melted now but you happen to catch a whiff of it. The scent of the chocolate brings you right back to the day before when you were looking intently at that theorem. Out of the blue, the odor of chocolate candy has given you the mental reminder you have to to remember that hard to learn theorem and you straightforwardly answer it on the test.

Chocolate Candy Smell and Taste

You can absolutely carry out this with anything like fruits, excellent smelling incense or anything else to that effect, however, nothing can still beat the strong and distinctive aroma of candy chocolate. It is so addictive that it will help you remember what you need to if you smell it while you're studying and definitely smell it again when you're having your test.

Taking In Chocolate Candy Moderation

Chocolate candy is fine if eaten in moderation, and it can help you get good grades but you don't want to sacrifice your nice figure just to get good grades by constantly eating chocolate. If you will not limit your chocolate candy consumption you will surely gain weight which is one of the greatest problems of women these days. You can use the smell alone to your advantage, just smelling the chocolate candy will be good for your memory.

By Andy Immotna - Personalized Chocolate Candy-Unique Gifts Your Loved Ones Will Appreciate

Types of Candy Molds

2009-02-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought that you could actually make candy yourself instead of buying one? Well, I am sure what follows next is how and what cookware you need. Candy molds are definitely some of the items you need. In fact, some people not only use them in making candy but also in soap making, molding butter, ice cubes, sugar and so on.

Candy molds come in variety of shapes and types such as holiday, seasonal, adult chocolate, lollipop and crispy, animal, sporty molds, wedding special, baby molds e.t.c. Others that are meant for occasional purposes will include; Easter chocolate molds, designed to brighten up your Easter in styles such as; Easter egg, bunny and chick chocolate molds, Easter lollipop molds, rabbit cake pans and so on.

Am sure you are thinking of adding some creative and elegance on the table this Christmas. Have you actually considered candy shaped sculpture molds? If you haven't, you've a whole wide choice to select from. Snowflake lollipops, toy soldier lollipops, cute gingerbread, wreath and candy care are some of your choices. 3d molds are also available and they do magic in creating those delicious and tasty candy shaped trucks, cruise ships,3D cars,Santa, snowman, toy soldiers e.t.c.

Colorful pumpkin, ghosts, spider, rat and scary Frankenstein molds are also available for your Halloween special and if you appreciate nature's beauty, leaf chocolate molds in different styles such as daisies, roses, lilies, orchids are available and will do magic in making your wedding colorful. To maintain candy molds, don't wash every time you use them, use minimal amount of liquid soap, dry them and always store in a cool dry place.

By Peter Gitundu - Personalized Chocolate Candy-Unique Gifts Your Loved Ones Will Appreciate

Candy Samples

2009-02-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

How many different types of candies do you think there are? Well, to be honest I am not quite sure of the exact number either, but I can tell you that some shops offer more than three hundred varieties of candy samples ranging from old-fashioned candies to sugar free ones. They are available for all age groups and are easily found in any candy shop.

Basically, saltwater taffy, licorice, old-fashioned candies, creamy fudge, huckleberries and sugar free are some of the most popular and common samples of candies. For instance, saltwater taffy comes in different flavors such as banana, blueberry, chocolate etc and you can buy a pound of it that has your favorite flavors for only 10.95 dollars. Other samples for instance creamy fudge will only cost you 13.95 dollars.

Even though much information concerning candy samples is available on line, one thing that amaze me is the magnitude in which candy shops are growing and turning into wholesale and distribution. In fact, they've a well-defined supply chain serving wide range of customer base that include; hotels, individuals, corporate offices, gifts shops, hospitals, news convenience businesses and sporting individuals. In most cases there's always a discount.

Not only do this candy samples come in affordable prices and for all age groups, they also come with additional snacks e.g coffee, groceries etc. In fact, all this is meant to attract and retain more customers. However, if you look around you'll notice that most candy shops not only supply individual customers and large operators, but also supply for corporate events.

By Peter Gitundu - 5 Healthy Alternatives To Candy This Halloween

Great Candy Wedding Favor Ideas

2009-01-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

Candy Wedding
Wedding favors are a great way to set-off your wedding. Guests will remember your wedding because you were different; you made them feel special for coming.

There are a lot of different types of wedding favors. One that couples commonly use is candy wedding favors. Giving your guest pieces of chocolate or a candy bar or even gummy bears, can make them feel special.

Depending on your budget and how much time you have, you can either make your own wedding favors or buy personalized ones. Either way, you’re guest are sure to feel more special. Remember, this is your big day and you don’t want your guests leaving unhappy. Because, trust me, they will talk about it…whether they had a wonderful time or didn’t.

One idea for cheap candy wedding favors is buy a couple five pound bags of gummy bears or whatever you and your finacee’s favorite candy is. Then buy little truffle boxes and embossed ribbon and assembled it yourselves. If you don’t like truffle boxes, try buying some tulle or fabric that you like and cutting it into squares. Then bring the edges up and tie the fabric with ribbon! This only cost about $30 for 100 favors!! You can’t beat that. That’s less than 3 cents per guest!! And you’ll leave your guests happy!

Another idea for making your own candy wedding favors is chocolate dipped spoons! These make great coffee stirrers and they flavor your coffee. You can either buy pre-made chocolate spoons, which will save you time. Or buy plastic spoons and chocolate chips (try flavored for a variety). Melt the chocolate and then dip the spoons in the chocolate and let harden. This might be a fun thing to do with a bunch of your girlfriends or even with your finacee!

Have candy bar wrappers personalized with your name! All you have to do is send off for these and then wait. When they arrive, they’ll be all ready to go. This is one less thing you have to worry about!

Here is a great resource to find candy wedding favors: www.ShopForBridal.com.

By Ashley Beck - 5 Healthy Alternatives To Candy This Halloween

How to Make Chocolate Candy - A Fascinating Segment of Cooking

2009-01-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Chocolate Candy
If you like desserts, baking, and chocolate, then you might want to learn how to make chocolate candy. Don't be concerned; the process for creating the majority of candies is easier than you think, and with a some practice, and taste testing, you can come up with chocolate dessert recipes that's all your own.

Beginning With The Basics

Prior to starting to make chocolate candy, you might wish to begin baking more conventional chocolate desserts, such as chocolate cake or brownies. Chocolate candies such as fudge or toffee are the same as brownies, and you can even integrate these candies into your baked goods for a richer flavor. You can learn a lot of basic recipes for brownies and cakes on various internet sites, and once you get the used to these, you might feel more comfortable moving on to candy making.

You can also make the candies that you see in bakeries and speciality shops; all you will need is the right ingredients as well as a candy mold. With the mold, you can make candies that are in any shape you wish, and you can decorate or garnish the candies to taste.

In the majority of cases, you will have to melt down a certain amount of the chocolate of your choice, and you can add specific flavor extracts depending on the flavor you want the candy to be. You pour the chocolate mixture into the molds, and allow the candy to set. In most instances, the candy will set better, and faster, if you put it in the refrigerator.

Variations on a Theme

You can also make chocolate truffles, which can at times be intimidating for those who do not spend much time in the kitchen. Nevertheless, you can learn how to make chocolate candy by just combining melted chocolate and whipping cream, until it is at its desired consistency. Then, you can use an ice cream scoop to break up the portions of truffles, and put these in the refrigerator to set as well.

You can roll the truffles in nutmeg or cinnamon, coconut and crushed nuts, or even cayenne pepper after you remove them from the fridge. These candies make an excellent dessert at parties, or a great gift when you use decorated paper or bags for presentation.

If you still want to know how to make chocolate candy and are not sure you will be able to get it precisely right the first time, you can visit various internet sites like so that you can analyze the recipes as many times as is needed to, and view pictures of the finished product. Keep in mind that you do get to taste each batch you create, so this should be enough motivation to keep trying. Happy baking!

Korbin Newlyn - Lose Weight While Eating Candy?

Chocolate Candy Gift Basket - A Tasty and Easy Gift Guide

2009-01-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

CANDY GIFT BASKET
One of the nicest gifts you can give, or receive, is a chocolate candy gift basket. Whether you're attempting to find a gift for a wedding, searching for the perfect anniversary present, or if you can not seem to find the perfect item to take along to the office Christmas party, you are sure to find a gift basket that has the desserts that everyone would want.

Personalize For That Special Effect

The basket can be individualized to contain all a person's favorite types of treats, and there are so many low-cost options. Here are some of the things you will wish to include in whatever chocolate candy gift basket you might be giving away.

Because you you have the ability to customize the basket in in the majority of cases, you should include the recipient's favorite items, such as colors, objects, as well as candy flavors will all play an important part in your decision.

If the person's who is getting the gift favorite color is purple, you can request that the basket be lined in purple fabric, or that the box that the chocolates come in have purple trim. You also can include other items inside the basket, such as red grapes or wine to preserve the 'purple' theme.

If you are aware that your loved one likes dark chocolate, try to include as many varieties of this kind of chocolate as you possibly can, and make sure that the presentation is elegant and classy. You can also include other food items that might be layered with dark chocolate, such as strawberries or popcorn, as well as chocolate treats that are decorated with sweet toppings such as caramel or coconut.

Complimentary Items

A chocolate candy gift basket can also have items that go well with chocolate, such as champagne or cheese. There are several companies that will pair the best types of cheese, wine or champagne up with your loved one's favorite chocolates, and larger gift baskets will make a terrific spread at a party or small gathering. You can check out sites on the internet to find out which pairings you need to pay particular attention to, and which basket presentations would be suitable for the person you are giving the gift to.

While you can order your chocolate candy gift basket over the internet, you can visit places such as Godiva to tailor-make your basket, and to get a taste of all the exceptional chocolates that will be included within your basket. You can even check out discount department stores like Wal-Mart and Target for unique gift basket ideas, in addition to some candy making tips that you an use to create your own gift basket. All you'll need is a basket at the size you want, gift paper, ribbons, and all the chocolate you want.

Korbin Newlyn - Lose Weigth While Eating Candy

Sugarless Candy Treats

2009-01-01T00:00:00.000-08:00

SUGARLESS CANDY
Once upon a time if you were hypoglycemic or diabetic or maybe on one of those low carbohydrate diets, you were prohibited certain foods that could trigger unhealthy reactions in you body: Namely, sweets. Yes, that wonderful delicacy, CANDY. The day sugar became public enemy number 1, is the day you lost the freedom to consume your favorite treat and had to expunge all sugar from your home, system, and memory.

Well, of course, in the 60's and 70's and maybe even further back, there were sugar free candies. There were those little lollipops the dentist always gave the kids. And, there were also chocolates. I even tried a couple of them. Hummm! Let me see, what can I say about them? Oh, yes, they were tasteless and waxy: So much for sugar free candy back then.

However, there is great news for those who have to remain candy less! New discoveries in the food industry have provided us with many choices of delectable goodies we can indulge in. Oh, there are still the cute little lollipops the dentists give out ( I actually resorted to stealing those from my kids once.) But, today there are so many choices in other sweet treats to choose from. Everything from no sugar added chocolate almond bark to sugarless toffee bits. The selections now are immense. Hooray! Not only do we have many chocolate goodies to choose from, but we can also indulge in a great selection of that American favorite ( made famous by President Ronald Reagan ) the Jelly Belly.

Now, in the recent past, some companies have come out with low carbohydrate chocolate bars, but many who tried them, while loving the taste, had a negative reaction in the tummy. Yes, they got upset stomachs and, therefore, couldn't eat the little yummies! Now, due to newer sweeteners on the market, the taste is not only great, there are few negative, laxative type effects from consumption. Yes, those of us who are glycemically challenged can now safely nibble away on our sorely missed candy morsels.

So, take heart! There are new discoveries every day that help those who are forced to live the candy less lifestyle, and now there are many, many choices with which to titillate our palates. So go ahead and enjoy, who says you can't have candy?

Christopher Pratt - My Best Chocolate Candy Bars

Personalized Chocolate Candy - Unique Gifts Your Loved Ones Will Appreciate

2008-12-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

Candy Chocolate
Some people are so busy with their daily lives that they don't have the time to make their own chocolate candy, however you can still personalize it by using some online resources and some of creativity. Here are some of the best idea on how to get personalized chocolate candy. One of the best ways to narrow down your choices for getting this type of chocolate candy online is to go to any of the major search engines and type in quotes "personalized chocolate candy".

There you will find a large list of online merchants that will have numerous products to select from. All Occasions You will find chocolate for many occasions such as Birthdays, Weddings, Child Births, or even Office Gifts. These companies will wrap the chocolates you purchase in paper that lists the name of the recipient, or the name of the occasion, or the time and date of a baby's birth or a wedding. Sports teams from various schools also use companies such as these to make chocolates that can be sold at different fundraisers to raise money for their respective team.

You even have the option of submitting photos to the company to be added to the candy wrapper, and you can send personalized chocolate candy for holidays such as Easter, Mothers Day, Fathers Day, and Christmas as well. The products of these types of companies are always expanding, you can even find muffin and cookie mixes to buy. You will find the prices are generally very affordable and you can also work with a sales representative so you can get a faster turn around time.

You will tend to find discounts and specials advertised on the sites, so make certain to check back a few times during the planning of your event. Unique and Creative Some sites offer quality chocolates where you can buy an actual large size Hershey bar that is customized to your specifications. For instance, if you are a teacher you can use these services to personalize treats for students, and if you are expecting a new arrival to the family, you can get the Hershey bars customized with "Heresheis" or "Hereheis" labels that are always a big hit with family and friends.

There are also a number of gift basket ideas on the site, in the event you need to give a personalized gift to a family member or coworker. There is also a toll-free number on the site that you can call if you have questions in regards to shipping and handling, or have a custom order that might require some additional attention. Bear in mind that you can also create your own personalized chocolate candy. All you need are some candy molds, flavor extracts, and the right ingredients for the kind of chocolate you trying to make.

Korbin Newlyn - My Best Chocolate Candy Bars

5 Healthy Alternatives To Candy This Halloween

2008-12-29T12:00:00.000-08:00

CANDY THIS HALLOWEN
With childhood obesity on the rise, kids really do not need additional calories from a bag full of candy. Chocolate candy bars, suckers, and gum are not only adding to our children’s waists, but also attributing to tooth and gum decay. With so many healthier options available, consider these alternatives to giving candy this Halloween.

Stickers – All children love stickers! You can get boxes of 1000 stickers from local dollar stores and split them among hundreds of children. With many different styles, you can offer a wide variety of sticker designs to each child. You can buy 10 boxes of stickers for what you would buy an extra large bag of candy, so you can offer kids a whole strip with the cost of a candy bar!

Bagged snacks – Most popular crackers, nuts, dried fruits and seeds come in individual serving bags. Cheese crackers with peanut butter filling and sealed bags of raisins are great alternatives to sugary offerings. With less sugar, less fat varieties, you can be giving children healthier snacks with much needed protein.

Coloring books or crayons – You can buy these items in bulk at local stores and online for a very reasonable cost. When the school year begins, you can purchase 24 count crayon boxes for as low as $.10! If you go to dollar and discount stores, you can find whole packages of coloring and activity books for very little cost, as well. Offering these items will expand a child’s imagination without expanding their waist.

Party favors or craft kits – Several online companies offer bags of 100 party favors and craft kits for a very low price. Everything the child needs to play a game, make some noise, or create a craft is included! Many times you can find these items at craft stores and discount retailers, too.

Mini Books – Paperback books can be cheap! Give the gift of reading this Halloween.

The amount of children you have knocking on your door will determine the above option you want to choose. However, any way you look at it, these ideas will give the kids more enjoyment than the few seconds they get from candy.

Nicola Kennedy - Uncooked Candy Recipes

UPDATED : Happy Halloween! The Healthiest Best Candy and Recipes

Lose Weight While Eating Candy?

2008-12-28T15:00:00.000-08:00

CANDY LOLLIPOP
If you are trying to lose weight then it is generally wise to avoid sweet in-between-meal snacks such as candy. However a new kind of lollipop, filled with a natural appetite suppressor and vitamins, could make candy snacks an integral part of a serious weight loss program.

The appetite suppressant that forms the main ingredient of these weight-loss lollipops, sold under trade names such as Power Pops, comes from the Hoodia Gordonii plant. The Bushmen of South Africa’s Kalahari Desert have been eating Hoodia Gordonii for thousands of years. They would eat the plant while going out on long hunting expeditions in order to decrease their appetite and increase their energy.

During the 1960s medical researchers found that the active ingredient of the plant does indeed suppress appetite. Journalists from CBS and BBC too have tried Hoodia and their reports on the appetite suppressing qualities of the South African plant have made Hoodia the “latest thing” for people anxious to do something about their weight problems.

But Hoodia cannot be effectively taken like a simple weight loss pill. The Bushmen of the Kalahari didn’t take capsules or pills rather they chewed on the plant slowly. It is a slow and gradual release of the plant’s appetite suppressing ingredient that provides the most effective way to get the benefits of Hoodia.

Sucking on a Hoodia-laden lollipop provides a good way to take Hoodia in a way that is similar to the successful use of the plant by the Bushmen. The nutrients are released slowly as you suck on the candy. In addition, holding the lollipop in your hand keeps you from reaching for other munchies.

Makers of the Hoodia lollipops say that they can be taken in between meals instead of other snacks or can be used in connection with a weight reduction meal plan.
For example they say that you can take a Hoodia lollipop with an eight ounce glass of water just thirty minutes before eating breakfast. They advise eating a well-balanced meal that includes fresh fruits.

When lunch time comes you can take another Hoodia lollipop with a glass of water thirty minutes before eating and then eat a balanced meal with protein, vegetables and carbohydrates. And the lollipop again is taken 30 minutes before dinner. Once again the dinner should be a balanced meal, and it should be eaten three hours before bedtime.

There are only two ways to lose weight, either you reduce your intake of food and calories or you must increase your exercise. If you have been struggling to reduce your calorie level due to uncontrollable hunger and continual snacking, then the new Hoodia products, combined with balanced meals and exercise may be just what you need to lose weight in a natural and enjoyable way.

Mike Vincent - Unccoked Candy Recipes

My Best Chocolate Candy Bars

2008-12-28T14:00:00.000-08:00

CHOCOLATE BARS
The best chocolate bars are the ones that hold the greatest memories of being at the movie theaters, the carnivals, at halloween, at home watching your favorite show.

As children we all had our favorite best chocolate bars. For me it was one thing, for my friends another. We all hovered around the same top three best chocolate bars at that time. They were the Snickers, Baby Ruth and the Musketeer chocolate candy bars. Although another favorite of mine was Hershey's milk chocolate almond candy bar.

Man, that was back in the day when we could buy a chocolate candy bar for .35 cents and a soda for .55 cents and still get some penny candy all for under a dollar! I am old, it has finally happened, I am old. But I still like my favorite chocolate candy bars.

The Best Chocolate Candy Bars
1. Snickers Candy Bars
2. Hersheys Candy Bars
3. Baby Ruth Candy Bars

First up is the Snickers bar. This bar is made by the company Mars, Inc. and has existed since 1930. Named for one of the Mars families horses, it has been popular since. It used to be known as Marathon outside the US, but that name was changed to Snickers. Why is this one of the best chocolate bars ever made, well because it is delicious that’s why!

Peanuts, nougat, caramel all covered in milk chocolate make this bar have a little bit of everything all in perfect balance. I love the crunchiness of the nuts mixed with the chewy caramel and nougat. The nuts and caramel separate it from the bland and boring Three Musketeers and Milky Way. There are certain times I crave a good chocolate bar, and only a Snickers will do. For that it ranks high on my list of best chocolate bars.

Second on the list is the Hershey chocolate almond bar. This bar is the my favorite Chocolate Bar and the one that is simple but satisfying. The first bar was introduced in 1894 and while variations exist, when one wants a good old fashioned American chocolate bar, Hershey, is the one to enjoy.

Finally, there's the Baby Ruth. A little historical fact floating around is that the Baby Ruth chocolate candy bar was named after Ruth Cleveland, President Clevelands daughter. Some think it was named after Babe Ruth, but either way it is one of my favorites that I got many cavities eating.

So, this may not be your pick, but they are representations of a time when health and chocolate eating were not on everyone's mind as today. They were meant for a snack, not your main meal. These were the top ones you went for at halloween too. So, what's your favorite?

Also, I discovered a couple of days ago a place called The South Bend Chocolate Company in Indiana. They have a line of signature chocolate candy bars. Here is where you move up from the average, everyday, supermarket candy bars. Now, it is gourmet, the finest of ingredients, cocoa butter, milk, nuts, the best recipes from the best. So, check it out, I already want to visit this place and their chocolate cafe!

Joe Young - Celebrate A Holiday With Candy

Uncooked Candy Recipes

2008-12-28T13:00:00.000-08:00

CANDY RECIPES
Here's Candy Recipes for you,
BALTIMORE LAYER CANDY
5 whites of eggs
21/2 tablespoonfuls cream
1 teaspoonful lemon extract
1 teaspoonful rose extract
1 square melted chocolate
1 teaspoonful almond extract
6 tablespoonfuls chopped almonds
1 teaspoonful vanilla extract
1/4 lb. (1 cup) chopped coconut
1/2 teaspoonful orange extract
1 orange, grated rind and strained juice
Sifted confectioners' sugar
Few drops green color
Few drops red color
Few drops orange color

Beat up one white of egg, add the lemon extract, one teaspoonful of the cream, the coconut, and mix with sufficient confectioners' sugar to make stiff enough to knead thoroughly. Then spread evenly in the bottom of a pan lined with waxed paper.

The other four layers are made in the same way, except that the color and flavor of each are different. Thus the second layer is colored with a few drops of red and flavored with rose extract; the third is mixed with vanilla and chocolate; the fourth with green color and almond extract, while the fifth is prepared with orange color, orange extract, and the rind and juice of an orange.

Spread evenly one above the other and let remain in the pan for two days, then turn out on a board sifted with confectioners' sugar, and allow to stand three days before slicing.
Wrap each piece in waxed paper and keep in airtight tins.

CHERRY CREAMS
8 ozs. (1 cup) confectioners' sugar Flavors
Pinch cream of tartar
Crystallized cherries Cream

Colors
Sift the sugar into a basin, add the cream of tartar and enough cream to make a stiff paste; flavor with orange and lemon extracts to taste, and divide into five portions; leave one portion white, and color the remaining portions pink, rose, pale green and brown; roll out each piece to one-eighth of an inch thick, dip a small plain cutter into confectioners' sugar and cut into rounds.
As each one is cut place a cherry in the center; fold up three sides so that the fruit is exposed in the center, but partly covered. Place in little paper cases.

CHOCOLATE FRUIT BARS
2 ozs. (1/2 cup) stoned dates
2 ozs. (1/2 cup) pine nuts
2 ozs. (1/2 cup) seedless raisins
1 teaspoonful vanilla extract
1 white of egg
1 oz. (1/4 cup) currants
A little melted chocolate
2 tablespoonfuls water
1 ozs. (1/2 cup) chopped candied citron peel
2 ozs. (1/2 cup) chopped candied lemon and orange peel

Confectioners' sugar
Chop all the fruits and nuts very fine, or run them through a food-chopper.
Put the white of egg into a basin, add the water, vanilla, fruits, and enough sifted confectioners' sugar to form a stiff paste.
Let the mixture dry for four hours.
Brush it over with melted chocolate. When dry, turn the sweet over on to waxed paper, and brush over the other side with melted chocolate.
Allow to set, then cut into neat bars with a sharp knife.

COCONUT KISSES
Desiccated coconut
1 white of egg
1/4 lb (1 cup) ground almonds
1 teaspoonful almond extract
1/4 lb. (1 cup) sugar

Color
Mix the almonds, sugar, almond extract, and white of egg to a stiff paste.
Leave aside until next day before molding.
Divide and color one half, and make into balls, and roll in desiccated coconut. Press the coconut well in and roll in coconut again.
Leave to dry for a few hours on waxed paper. Put in paper cases.

Liza Othman - Celebrate A Holiday With Candy

Celebrate A Holiday With Candy

2008-12-28T12:00:00.000-08:00

CANDY
Hosting a function and need some help with the decorations? Don't fret! You have all you need right at your fingertips. Whatever the gala event; decorate with candy.

It doesn't matter how formal or laid back the function is, you can use candy to decorate the entire affair. Whether it is a formal sit-down dinner after a wedding or a Kindergartener's room party at school, candy gets the job done.

If you are the room mom for your Kindergartener, and it is his or her party day, use specialized candies for treats and decorating. No matter what the party theme is you can find candy delicacies for any holiday. Take St. Patrick's Day for instance. You can buy specialized candy treats like chocolate shamrocks, green Hershey Kisses, or gourmet lollipops with Happy St. Patrick's Day on them. You can get shamrock mints or green rock candy. Maybe you want to give the kids their own little treasure chest of chocolate gold coins. It is all available. So don't be afraid to host that holiday class party.

Maybe you are hosting a tea for a departing missionary. Tea and sweets were born to be taken together. But, it doesn't have to be fancy or difficult. Buy some large chocolate bars; divide them into strips along the lines imprinted in the chocolate then alternate milk, white, and dark chocolate strips in a radiating circle on a beautiful dessert plate. Served along with your tea sandwiches, it makes a lovely accent, not to mention how tasty it will be. It looks gorgeous and all you had to do was buy some candy bars.

If your event is more formal such as a wedding reception, Jordan Almonds have long been a staple for both favors and decorating the tables. But, Jordan Almonds have come a long way since the days of those pretty pastel pinks, greens, and whites. Now, look in fine stores or on-line locations for Jordan Almonds covered in dragees: that beautiful shiny gold or silver coating bakers use for accents on cookies and cakes. They are simply stunning and scream "FORMAL EVENT!"

Candy just seems to dress up any activity. Because there is a special aura surrounding candy that says, "If you are really good; and really special; you will get a really great treat." It has always been this way with sweets.

Let's face it; they are the food group that goes the extra mile whether there is a celebration at hand or not. Each holiday or special event can be dressed up with some candy decorations. What fun is Easter without the Cadbury Eggs or malt balls in a basket? I always have loved when people put out a dish full of candy corn around Halloween or Thanksgiving. And of course Christmas; what would this holiday be without the candy cane? Candy is the ideal decoration because it is colorful, but also a sweet treat for your guests. For your next event think candy, but don't eat too many of the decorations!

Christopher Pratt