Vintage Christmas Candy Favorites

The sweet taste of nostalgia! For many of us, Christmas candies evoke memories of childhood holidays spent surrounded by loved ones, sugary treats, and festive cheer. Vintage Christmas candies have a special place in our hearts, transporting us back to a time when life was simpler and the holiday season was a time for wonder and magic. In this article, we'll take a journey down memory lane and explore some of the most beloved vintage Christmas candies that still bring joy to our lives today.

The History of Christmas Candies

Christmas candies have a long and rich history that dates back to the early days of sugar production. During the Middle Ages, sugar was a rare and expensive commodity, making candies a luxury item only the wealthy could afford. As sugar production increased and became more accessible, candies became a staple of holiday celebrations. In the United States, Christmas candies gained popularity in the mid-19th century, with the introduction of new candy-making techniques and the rise of iconic candy companies like Hershey's and Mars.

The Top Vintage Christmas Candies

Let's take a look at some of the most iconic and beloved vintage Christmas candies that still bring joy to our lives today:

1. Candy Canes

Candy canes are one of the most recognizable and iconic Christmas candies. These striped treats have been a holiday staple for centuries, with the first recorded reference to candy canes dating back to 1670 in Germany. According to legend, a choirmaster at the Cologne Cathedral created the first candy canes to keep children quiet during long church services. Today, candy canes come in a variety of flavors and sizes, but the classic peppermint flavor remains a timeless favorite.

2. Chocolate Coins

Chocolate coins, also known as chocolate money or chocolate gelt, have been a beloved Christmas treat for generations. These chocolate disks wrapped in gold or silver foil were originally created to resemble coins, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. Today, chocolate coins are a staple in many holiday celebrations, often used as stocking stuffers or treats for Santa's reindeer.

3. Peanut Brittle

Peanut brittle is a classic Christmas candy that dates back to the early 20th century. This crunchy, nutty treat is made with peanuts, sugar, and corn syrup, and is often flavored with vanilla or butter. Peanut brittle is a beloved holiday tradition, often made at home or purchased from local candy stores.

4. Toffee

Toffee is a classic English candy that has been a holiday staple for centuries. This rich, buttery treat is made with sugar, cream, and butter, and is often flavored with vanilla or nuts. Toffee is a beloved Christmas candy, often served at holiday gatherings or used as a topping for cakes and cookies.

5. Divinity

Divinity is a classic Southern Christmas candy that dates back to the early 20th century. This sweet, creamy treat is made with sugar, corn syrup, and pecans, and is often flavored with vanilla or maple. Divinity is a beloved holiday tradition, often made at home or purchased from local candy stores.

How to Make Your Own Vintage Christmas Candies

Making your own vintage Christmas candies is a fun and rewarding holiday tradition. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic candy-making techniques, you can create your own beloved treats at home. Here are a few recipes to get you started:

Recipe 1: Classic Peanut Brittle

Ingredients:

• 1 cup peanuts
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine peanuts, sugar, corn syrup, and water.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract.
6. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread into a thin layer.
7. Allow to cool and harden, then break into pieces.

Recipe 2: Homemade Chocolate Coins

Ingredients:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Gold or silver foil wrappers

Instructions:

1. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Stir in heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour mixture into a lined or greased candy mold or a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Allow to cool and harden, then wrap in gold or silver foil wrappers.

Conclusion

Vintage Christmas candies are a beloved holiday tradition that brings joy and nostalgia to our lives. Whether you're a fan of classic candy canes, chocolate coins, or homemade treats, there's something special about indulging in these sweet treats during the holiday season. By making your own vintage Christmas candies at home, you can create new traditions and memories with your loved ones. So go ahead, get creative, and make this holiday season one to remember!