Candy can be fun to make as a home project for your own family or as a present to share with others. Depending on what type of candy you’re making, you’ll want to stock up on some supplies that can make your efforts look more professional. From thermometers to double boilers, we’ve gathered a collection of the best candy making supplies to add to your kitchen.
Polder candy thermometer
Precise temperatures deliver the best results
A candy thermometer is absolutely essential if you're making caramel or tempering chocolate. The built-in clip on the back of the thermometer keeps it in place on the side of your pot. It stands 14-inches tall, and temperatures from 90 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit are visible on the scale.
AmazonBasics silicone baking mats
Go green with reusable tray liners
After dipping your chocolates, you'll need to set them somewhere they won't stick as they harden. These silicone mats are great for decorating tasks; they are non-stick and completely reusable for your future batches. They also work well in the oven and can withstand temperatures up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit.
Wilton candy tools set
Skip using a fork when dipping candies
Dip, scoop, and decorate with this candy tool set. There are five pieces total, each with a specific purpose, to elevate your candy-making skills. The hoop-shaped tool for dipping round candies is especially useful, as is the drizzling scoop when it's time to add fancy designs.
CAKETIME silicone molds
Intricately-designed shapes that will stand out
Delight in the adorable shapes available in these silicone molds. Each mold is made of food-grade silicone and can withstand temperatures of -104 to 446 degrees Fahrenheit. Translucent candies or gummies will sparkle as the nooks and crannies catch the light.
NORPRO funnel pitcher
A fine spout for easily filling molds
Want to pour your candy and chocolate into molds before it sets? The precision pouring spout cuts down on waste normally caused by missing the small shapes in molds. It holds 28 ounces, is safe to 320 degrees Fahrenheit, and the clear body makes it easy to measure liquids.
Mrs. Anderson's baking chocolate molds
All the classic chocolate shapes with some extras
Ready to make your own delicious truffles? How about solid chocolate bars? These molds offer all the traditional shapes you'd expect to see from the finest chocolatier. They're made of European-grade silicone that is easy to clean and good at holding its original shape.
SONGZIMING stainless steel double boiler pot
Melt candy chips without worrying about hotspots
Heating candies, chocolates, and caramels on direct heat present too many opportunities for ruining your sweets. This double boiler pot sits on top of any secondary pot of boiling water and prevents burnt sugars. It holds 2 cups and is made of 18/8 stainless steel.
Super sweets
Why you can trust Real Homes
Making candies at home can be difficult without the right supplies. Overall, we think the most important piece of equipment is the Polder candy thermometer. Without keeping an eye on the temperature, it’s impossible to know when caramel is the consistency you want it to be or when chocolate will produce that tempered sheen. It can stay in the pot while you’re heating candy, so it’s always in sight.
If you’re going to go through the trouble of making your own candy, it should look good, too. That’s why we also think it’s important to pick up some chocolate molds. Our favorite are the Mrs. Anderson's baking chocolate molds because they offer shapes you’re familiar with, including truffles, cordials, and bars. They’re made of premium silicone and will maintain their shape for years to come.
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Nicole Cozma is a freelance writer for Future. She's known for being inquisitive and finding the tiny details that may otherwise go unnoticed. When she's not writing about products, she can be found playing Blizzard game titles, doing copy editing work, cooking, or expanding her photography skills.