Milk Dud Recipe: Delicious Homemade Candies Made Simple

If you’re a fan of the chewy, chocolatey delight of Milk Duds, you’re in for a treat! Crafting these iconic caramel-filled candies at home is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can make your own homemade Milk Duds that rival the store-bought version. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you achieve that perfect combination of gooey caramel and rich chocolate coating. Let’s dive in!

Why Make Homemade Milk Duds?

Store-bought candies are convenient, but there’s something uniquely satisfying about making your own. Here’s why you should give this Milk Dud recipe a try:

Control Over Ingredients: Homemade versions allow you to avoid preservatives and adjust sweetness to your liking.
Fun Activity: Making candy is a fun and rewarding activity for kids and adults alike.
Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to make it dairy-free, vegan, or gluten-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before starting, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delectable Milk Dud recipe:

For the Caramel:

1 cup of granulated sugar
½ cup of light corn syrup
½ cup of heavy cream
4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon of salt

For the Chocolate Coating:

1½ cups of milk chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
1 tablespoon of coconut oil (optional, for a smoother coating)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Milk Duds

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Candy-making requires precision, so it’s best to be prepared before you start. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. This will prevent the caramel from sticking as it cools.

2. Make the Caramel Base

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
Once the mixture starts boiling, reduce the heat slightly and stop stirring. Allow it to simmer until it reaches 245–250°F on a candy thermometer. This stage is known as the firm-ball stage, crucial for achieving that chewy texture.
Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.

3. Shape the Caramel

Allow the caramel mixture to cool slightly until it’s safe to handle but still pliable.
Scoop small amounts of caramel (about the size of a marble) and roll them into balls. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet.
Let the caramel cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate for faster results.

4. Melt the Chocolate

Place the milk chocolate and coconut oil (if using) in a heatproof bowl.
Melt the chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning.

5. Coat the Caramel Balls

Using a fork or skewer, dip each caramel ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Gently shake off excess chocolate and place the coated candies back onto the parchment-lined tray.
Let the chocolate set at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker results.

Tips for Perfect Milk Duds

Use a Candy Thermometer: Precision is key in candy-making. A thermometer ensures your caramel reaches the correct temperature for the desired chewiness.
Don’t Rush the Cooling Process: Allow the caramel to cool completely before coating it in chocolate; otherwise, the chocolate may not adhere properly.
Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for salted Milk Duds or infuse the caramel with coffee for a mocha twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make Milk Duds Without Corn Syrup?

Yes! While corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, you can substitute it with honey or golden syrup for a slightly different flavor.

2. How Long Do Homemade Milk Duds Last?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these candies can last up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.

3. Can I Use Dark Chocolate Instead of Milk Chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate provides a richer, less sweet coating, which pairs beautifully with the sweet caramel.

Nutritional Information

While Milk Duds are a treat, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s an approximate breakdown for a batch of homemade Milk Duds:

Calories (per piece): 50
Fat: 2.5g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 0.5g

Fun Variations to Try

1. Vegan Milk Duds

Swap out the heavy cream and butter for coconut cream and vegan butter. Use dairy-free chocolate for the coating.

2. Peanut Butter Milk Duds

Add a small dollop of peanut butter inside the caramel before rolling it into balls for a nutty surprise.

3. Spiced Milk Duds

Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the caramel mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This homemade Milk Dud recipe combines nostalgia with the joy of creating something from scratch. Unlike store-bought candies, these are free from artificial additives, allowing you to enjoy a cleaner, more natural treat. Plus, the ability to customize the recipe means you can tailor it to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Conclusion

Homemade Milk Duds are a delightful blend of chewy caramel and smooth chocolate that are surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or exploring candy-making for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and indulge in the satisfaction of crafting your own delicious candies. Once you try these, store-bought Milk Duds may never taste the same again!

Ready to get started? Your homemade Milk Duds are just a few steps away. Enjoy every bite!

If you’re ready to continue exploring the world of intense, flavor-packed dishes, be sure to check out more of our recipes. Embrace the thrill of cooking with bold ingredients and discover new ways to elevate your meals!

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