What is the difference between hard and soft candy?

Hard candy and soft candy are two types of confectionery that differ in their texture and composition. Here are the key differences between hard and soft candy:

1. Texture:

- Hard candy: Hard candy is characterized by its firm and brittle texture. It is typically made by boiling a sugar syrup to a high temperature and then allowing it to cool and harden.

- Soft candy: Soft candy has a softer and chewier texture compared to hard candy. It is usually made by boiling sugar syrup to a lower temperature and then adding other ingredients such as gelatin, corn syrup, or butter.

2. Ingredients:

- Hard candy: The primary ingredient in hard candy is sugar or a combination of sugar and corn syrup. Other ingredients may include flavorings, colorings, and sometimes additional sweeteners like honey or molasses.

- Soft candy: Soft candy has a wider variety of ingredients compared to hard candy. In addition to sugar and corn syrup, soft candy may also contain gelatin, butter, milk, nuts, fruits, or chocolate.

3. Melting point:

- Hard candy: Hard candy has a higher melting point compared to soft candy. This is because it contains a higher proportion of sugar and fewer moisture-containing ingredients.

- Soft candy: Soft candy has a lower melting point due to the presence of moisture and other ingredients that lower its melting temperature.

4. Shelf life:

- Hard candy: Hard candy generally has a longer shelf life compared to soft candy. This is because it is less prone to spoilage and can be stored at room temperature for extended periods.

- Soft candy: Soft candy has a shorter shelf life than hard candy. It is more susceptible to moisture absorption, which can lead to spoilage. Soft candy is best stored in a cool, dry place and consumed within a few weeks of purchase.

5. Applications:

- Hard candy: Hard candy is often used as an after-dinner treat, as well as for decorative purposes. It can be found in various shapes and sizes, including lollipops, stick candy, and rock candy.

- Soft candy: Soft candy is commonly consumed as a snack and can come in various forms, including gummy bears, jelly beans, caramels, and taffy.

In summary, hard candy is characterized by its firm texture and higher melting point, while soft candy is known for its softer, chewier texture and lower melting point. The ingredients, shelf life, and applications also differ between these two types of candy.