31 Sweet and Simple Homemade Candy Recipes
Homemade candy recipes let you create sweet treats with simple ingredients and a personal touch, perfect for any occasion. These candies bring nostalgic flavors, adding a fun, hands-on element to dessert-making.
Many recipes require minimal effort, making them accessible even for beginners. From chewy delights to melt-in-your-mouth sweets, each candy has a unique texture and taste.
Ideal for gifting or enjoying at home, homemade candies add a little sweetness to life. Take a look at this list of 31 easy homemade candy recipes to try:
Easy Homemade Divinity
Divinity candy is a tasty confection known for its airy texture and rich flavor, often enjoyed in Southern households during festive seasons.
This treat boasts a unique blend reminiscent of nougat, meringue, and fudge that brings warmth to any gathering.
Traditionally crafted with candied pecans and vanilla extract, there’s room for creativity as you venture into alternative flavors like peppermint or swap out the nuts for walnuts if that's your preference.
Gummy Recipe
Gummy bears are a fun treat that you can easily create at home with just three simple ingredients.
Crafted from fruit juice, high-quality gelatin, and honey or pure maple syrup, these chewy candies allow for both creativity and customization in their shapes.
Instead of the usual store-bought varieties often laden with unhealthy additives, this recipe gives you control over the flavors and sweetness.
Chocolate Covered Pretzels
Chocolate-covered pretzels are a festive favorite that seamlessly blend the crunch of salty pretzels with the rich sweetness of chocolate.
This treat invites family participation, allowing everyone to join in on crafting these delightful snacks together.
Simply dip your choice of whole pretzels or sticks into white and milk (or dark) chocolate bark for a delicious finish, sprinkling them with colorful toppings if desired.
The ease of preparation makes this recipe accessible even for those new to candy making, ensuring enjoyment at any gathering or celebration while satisfying diverse taste preferences.
Easy Buckeye Recipe
Buckeyes are delightful no-bake candies that resemble playful eyeballs, making them a fun treat for Halloween or any occasion.
The rich filling offers the comforting taste of peanut butter fudge with a smooth texture that's hard to resist.
Dipping these rounded morsels into melted chocolate creates an appealing contrast and elevates their indulgence factor significantly.
For an exciting twist, consider using white chocolate instead for a festive look and flavor variation.
Peppermint Patties Recipe
Peppermint patties perfectly harmonize the refreshing taste of mint with rich chocolate.
This simple candy can be made at home using just four key ingredients: powdered sugar, butter, peppermint extract, and corn syrup.
Creating these sweet morsels involves shaping them by hand, which eliminates the need for rolling out dough and makes it an accessible option for all skill levels in the kitchen.
Once chilled to perfection, you coat each patty in luscious dark dipping chocolate and add a sprinkle of fun toppings like colorful sprinkles or crushed candies to make them visually appealing.
Cool Whip Candy
Cool whip candy is a delightful way to create chocolate truffles without the hassle.
These treats effortlessly marry the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy peanut butter, offering a satisfying indulgence in every bite.
Crafted with just a few ingredients: cool whip, semi-sweet chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and powdered sugar, you can prepare these sweet morsels quickly.
For added flair, consider rolling them in coconut flakes or nuts for an exciting twist on presentation.
Homemade Junior Mints
Homemade junior mints are a great treat that you can whip up in your own kitchen, combining smooth cream cheese with refreshing mint flavors. Crafting these candies offers the satisfaction of creating something truly special while allowing for customization based on your chocolate preference, whether semi-sweet or dark.
The balance of creamy texture and minty essence makes each piece uniquely satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients like powdered sugar and mint extract, this recipe ensures that anyone craving a sweet confection can enjoy them anytime without hassle.
These homemade gems provide an enjoyable way to satisfy those candy cravings at home.
Caramel Chocolate Pecan Turtles Candy
Caramel chocolate pecan turtles effortlessly combine creamy caramel with crunchy toasted pecans, all enveloped in rich chocolate. This recipe stands out because it simplifies the caramel-making process by using the microwave, allowing you to whip up these candies without any fuss.
You’ll find that creating this sweet indulgence requires just a handful of ingredients like salted butter, brown and white sugars, vanilla extract, light corn syrup, and high-quality chocolate. The result is an irresistible candy that's surprisingly easy to make at home while still delivering on taste and texture.
With each bite offering a perfect blend of flavors, you'll have these scrumptious treats ready in no time.
Lemon Drop Candies
Lemon drop candies are a delightful treat bursting with tangy flavor that captures the essence of citrus freshness.
With just a handful of ingredients like fresh lemon juice, sugar, and honey, you can create these charming sweets right in your kitchen.
Utilizing a candy thermometer to reach 250 degrees Fahrenheit ensures perfect results while allowing for an easygoing approach to their shape, imperfections only add character.
Sprinkling powdered sugar on top enhances their appeal and prevents sticking, making them even more enjoyable.
Homemade Jelly Beans
Homemade jelly beans are a confection that allows you to craft sweet treats tailored to your taste.
The beauty of making these candies at home lies in the freedom to experiment with countless flavors, from nostalgic bubble gum and popcorn for kids to sophisticated options like rum and coke or whiskey for adults.
Control over ingredients means you can create healthier versions without artificial additives while enjoying the satisfaction of crafting something deliciously unique.
Whether you're aiming for classic favorites or adventurous new tastes, this candy recipe is sure to impress everyone around you.
Stained Glass Candy
Stained glass candy is a dazzling treat that transforms simple sugar into a beautiful, colorful delight.
With just some flavored oils like raspberry or peppermint, you can craft these hard candies in various exciting flavors such as green apple and banana.
Using a candy thermometer ensures the perfect texture while allowing room for creativity in colors and shapes.
3-Ingredient Microwave Peanut Butter Fudge
Peanut butter fudge is a creamy delight that showcases the bold taste of peanut butter in every mouthful.
With just three simple ingredients, this recipe allows you to whip up a batch quickly using your microwave, eliminating the need for any messy pots or pans.
The combination of smooth peanut butter, unsalted butter, and powdered sugar results in an indulgent treat that's perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without much fuss.
In only five minutes, you can create these melt-in-your-mouth squares that will impress anyone with their homemade charm.
Scottish Tablet
Scottish tablet is a traditional confection that stands out with its unique, grainy texture and slightly firmer consistency compared to fudge. This candy offers a delightful sweetness that melts effortlessly in your mouth, making it an irresistible treat for those with a sweet tooth.
Historically crafted from cream and sugar, modern variations often incorporate butter and sweetened condensed milk for added richness. You can whip up this simple recipe using just granulated white sugar, full-fat milk, sweetened condensed milk, and butter, all readily available ingredients that make homemade indulgence accessible.
With minimal effort required to prepare this classic Scottish delight, you'll find yourself reaching for another piece before you know it.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Grahams
Chocolate peanut butter grahams are an enticing treat that marries the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy peanut butter in a simple cookie format.
With just three essential ingredients: creamy peanut butter, graham crackers, and your choice of chocolate candy coating, these sweet bites come together effortlessly.
For those who enjoy experimenting, white chocolate can serve as a delightful alternative for dipping.
These candies deliver big taste with minimal fuss, making them perfect for satisfying any sweet craving without complicated steps.
Fantasy Fudge Recipe
Fantasy fudge is a beloved treat known for its creamy texture and rich chocolate flavor, making it an ideal choice for those looking to whip up something sweet without fuss.
The standout feature of this recipe lies in the use of marshmallow cream, which adds a delightful smoothness that elevates the overall taste.
To create this candy classic, just gather butter or margarine, white sugar, evaporated milk, pecans or walnuts for crunchiness, along with vanilla extract to round out the flavor profile.
With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients at your fingertips, crafting homemade fantasy fudge becomes an enjoyable experience that invites you back time after time when you're craving something special.
Scotcharoos (Oh Henry Bars)
Scotcharoos are layered treats featuring crispy rice cereal and a rich peanut butter base.
This nostalgic candy draws inspiration from the classic Oh Henry bar, adding layers of butterscotch and chocolate that enhance its texture and flavor profile.
With just a handful of ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, creamy peanut butter, and your choice of chips, you can easily whip up these satisfying snacks at home.
These bars offer an enjoyable twist on traditional Rice Krispie treats while delivering extra indulgence in every layer.
Samoa Truffles
Samoa truffles are a decadent treat inspired by the beloved Samoa Girl Scout Cookies, allowing you to relish that iconic flavor anytime.
Toasted coconut flakes contribute a delightful nuttiness and subtle crunch, enhancing each bite with texture.
Crushed vanilla wafer cookies form the base of this indulgent delight, offering sweetness that complements the rich chocolate coating beautifully.
Using high-quality dark chocolate elevates these truffles further, creating an irresistible finish that's perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth or sharing during special occasions.
Homemade Gumdrops
Homemade gumdrops are a fun and colorful treat that anyone can create with minimal effort.
These candies consist of flavored sugar syrup combined with gelatin, making the process surprisingly straightforward.
Utilizing Jello gives you the ability to choose from an array of vibrant colors and flavors, while applesauce adds a unique twist to their texture.
Whether opting for silicone molds or simply pouring onto a cookie sheet, crafting these chewy delights becomes an enjoyable experience in your kitchen.
Southern Pecan Pralines
Southern pecan pralines are a confection that embodies the rich flavors of the South.
Renowned for their creamy texture and nutty crunch, these candies bring together sugar, butter, and toasted pecans in a sweet embrace.
Achieving that perfect consistency requires a candy thermometer; however, once you experience this treat's satisfying richness made with both white and brown sugars, you'll understand why it’s worth the effort.
Heavy whipping cream enhances its smoothness but feel free to substitute with half-and-half or milk if preferred.
Muddy Buddies (Puppy Chow)
Muddy buddies, often known as puppy chow, are a popular treat that captures the joy of snacking with its crunchy texture and rich flavors.
This candy stands out for its generous mix of peanut butter, chocolate, and powdered sugar, making it an irresistible indulgence during festive gatherings.
Using Rice Chex or Corn Chex ensures a delightful crunch without the sweetness found in other cereals.
For those following a plant-based diet, simply swap traditional ingredients for vegan alternatives like vegan butter to enjoy this tasty concoction guilt-free.
Copycat Churro Toffee Disneyland Recipe
Churro toffee brings the magic of Disneyland right into your kitchen, recreating that irresistible sweet and crunchy delight enjoyed at Pooh's Corner.
This treat captures the essence of classic churros with its buttery base infused with cinnamon and a touch of vanilla, making it truly special.
The process is straightforward; you'll find yourself combining essential ingredients like butter, sugar, salt, white chocolate chips, and cinnamon to craft this candy wonder.
Although it lacks the white chocolate coating found in Disneyland's version during holiday seasons, you can still savor every bite without waiting for festive occasions.
Homemade Caramels
Homemade caramels deliver a rich and chewy experience that elevates any sweet tooth's craving. With just a handful of simple ingredients: heavy cream, unsalted butter, light corn syrup, sugar, water, and flaked sea salt, you'll create delightful sea salt caramel chews right in your kitchen.
A candy thermometer is essential for achieving the perfect texture; careful monitoring ensures success without the risk of overcooking. Doubling or tripling this recipe isn’t advisable since timing plays a crucial role in caramel consistency.
Making these treats allows you to indulge in classic flavors while enjoying the satisfaction of homemade sweets anytime you desire.
Homemade Peanut Butter Cups
Homemade peanut butter cups are a great treat that captures the essence of sweet and salty perfection.
Crafting these candies at home gives you complete control over ingredients, allowing for healthier choices like natural peanut butter paired with rich chocolate.
Elevating your creation can be as simple as incorporating a layer of salted caramel in the center, adding an indulgent touch that enhances every bite.
Ideal for satisfying cravings or sharing with friends, this recipe transforms an iconic candy into something truly special and personal to you.
Microwave Peanut Brittle
Microwave peanut brittle is a quick and accessible treat that transforms the classic candy-making process into an effortless kitchen task. With just a few basic ingredients like granulated sugar, salted peanuts, and butter, you can achieve that perfect crunchy texture without any hassle.
Using your microwave not only saves time but also minimizes mess, just make sure to grab a glass bowl for safety during cooking. The simplicity of this recipe allows for endless enjoyment, whether shared with friends or savored in solitude.
It's an easy way to indulge your sweet tooth while enjoying the satisfying crunch of homemade candy right from your own kitchen.
Homemade Mallomars
Homemade mallomars are cookies featuring a rich combination of textures and flavors. This treat consists of a crisp graham cracker base topped with fluffy vanilla marshmallows, all enrobed in luxurious dark chocolate.
Crafting these from scratch is surprisingly straightforward, allowing you to enjoy this classic dessert fresh and tailored to your taste. While making the marshmallow layer, it’s essential to monitor the whipping process; over-whipping can cause premature setting, which complicates pouring into your pan for perfect layers.
These homemade delights bring that nostalgic store-bought charm right into your kitchen while offering an opportunity for sweet creativity.
Homemade Almond Joy Candy Bars
Homemade almond joy candy bars deliver an excellent experience that mirrors the beloved original treat. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll find sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, roasted almonds, and chocolate coming together to create something truly special.
Crafting these treats can be done in any shape you fancy, cupcake liners add convenience but aren't necessary for your creativity. As an added bonus, this recipe often earns praise for its homemade richness over store-bought versions.
If you're feeling adventurous after making these sweets, there's also a fun opportunity to tackle crafting your own homemade candy cane!
Easy Crockpot Candy
Crockpot candy offers a simple way to create sweet treats using just chocolate and nuts. With minimal effort, you can enjoy the process of melting your favorite ingredients in a slow cooker.
The ease of tossing everything into the pot allows for hassle-free preparation, making it ideal for anyone seeking quick homemade delights. Once melted, stirring combines the flavors beautifully before spooning out onto waxed paper creates an appealing finish.
A sprinkle of sea salt or colorful sprinkles adds that final touch to these irresistible confections, ensuring they’re not only tasty but visually inviting too.
Candied Orange Peel Recipe
Candied orange peel serves as a delightful treat that transforms often discarded citrus peels into something truly special. This simple yet rewarding recipe yields sweet, chewy bites that not only satisfy your candy cravings but also offer an unexpected decorative touch for cakes and desserts.
With just a few ingredients and no need for specialized equipment like a candy thermometer, you can easily create this charming confection at home. Besides oranges, experimenting with lime or lemon peels opens up even more delicious possibilities in your kitchen.
The best part is its longevity; properly stored candied peels last several months in the freezer, ensuring you have this unique snack ready whenever you desire it.
Easy Microwave Cashew Brittle Recipe
Microwave cashew brittle offers a great alternative for those who prefer nuts other than peanuts. This sweet treat features crunchy, caramelized cashews and is incredibly simple to make without the need for complicated tools like a candy thermometer.
By utilizing your microwave, you can whip up this tasty confection in no time, perfect for satisfying your cravings or sharing with friends. The combination of sugar, corn syrup, butter, baking soda, and vanilla creates an irresistible flavor profile that might just become your new favorite go-to recipe.
It's easy enough to prepare whenever you're in the mood for something sweet at home.
Saltine Cracker Toffee
Saltine cracker toffee is a surprisingly delightful treat that combines salty and sweet elements in an irresistible way.
Also referred to as Christmas Crack, this candy features layers of crunchy saltine crackers topped with a rich buttery caramel and smooth chocolate, creating an amazing texture contrast.
With just five simple ingredients: saltine crackers, brown sugar, butter, milk chocolate chips or morsels, and your choice of pecans or walnuts, it comes together effortlessly in only 15 minutes.
This quick-to-make confection will easily satisfy cravings for something both savory and sweet while offering endless possibilities for customization through various toppings.
Easy Homemade Lollipops
Easy homemade lollipops are a fun treat that anyone can whip up in no time.
The standout feature of these candies lies in their customizable flavors, allowing you to mix sweet or fruity options like cinnamon and cherry according to your taste.
Crafting these delightful treats involves using silicone molds, which are readily available at kitchen supply stores or online retailers.
A quick method is melting hard candy in the oven until it forms a gooey liquid ready for molding into playful shapes.