Candy Is Sticky

by Deb
(Louisville, Ky)

White chocolate orange center candy is sticky?

I have made homemade candy for over 25 years. I made a batch of Merckens white chocolate orange cream centers, and they came out beautifully, but they are soooo sticky that if you pick it up you can not let it go.


What happened?


I have never had this issue before, and I usually go thru 20 lbs of chocolate or more every time I make Christmas candy.

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Hi Deb,

Sorry to hear about your candy making woes! You've probably got a lot more experience at candy making than I do, so I'm feeling a little inadequate to try to help you. :)


The usual first question I ask when it comes to sticky candy is what is the humidity levels? Candy is just so temperamental when it comes to the weather.


I made those homemade peppermint patties last week and had a terrible time because of the humidity. They did NOT want to set.


I ended up popping them in the freezer for a little while, so of course, I ended up with chocolate bloom. It didn't really worry me in the least because just my friends and family were going to nibble on them and we don't really mind.


However, that's NOT an ideal solution, so you want to avoid the freezer/refrigerator when possible, as I'm sure you well know.


I just read a "Tip" this week for handling the situation of humidity and eliminating the problem of stickiness when using molds in particular. I haven't tried it yet myself, but here it is...


Pop the molds into the freezer and when you take them out, leave the chocolates in the mold and cover them with a piece of waxed paper for 5-10 minutes to let them set without the air getting to them.


If anyone tries out this tip before I get the chance, DO let me know if it works for you.


I guess the next question I would ask for your particular situation, Deb, is regarding the freshness of the Merckens white chocolate wafers. Although I've used pretty "old" wafers before, fresh is always best, of course, giving the best results.


I haven't heard that Merckens had changed their white chocolate wafers in any way recently, but I suppose that would be a consideration, too. You could always check for a number on your packet and give them a ring to inquire.


Do try calling their customer service number and see if they have any suggestions about why this particular batch of candy is sticky. Let us know what they say.

Blessings,
Angie