How do you make inverted sugar?

To make inverted sugar, you will require the following ingredients:

- White sugar

- Water

Instructions:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

For inverted sugar, use one cup of white granulated sugar and half a cup of water. Measure these ingredients accurately.

Step 2: Prepare a Heatproof Container

Get a heatproof glass container or pot that is large enough to hold the sugar and water mixture. It's important to have a container that can handle the heat.

Step 3: Combine Sugar and Water

Pour the measured white granulated sugar into the heatproof container. Then add the measured water to the same container.

Step 4: Heat the Mixture

Place the heatproof container with the sugar and water mixture over medium-high heat. This temperature encourages the rapid dissolution of the sugar in water.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Constantly stir the mixture until it comes to a boil. While stirring, notice the sugar beginning to dissolve in the water.

Step 6: Lower the Temperature

Once the mixture starts boiling, reduce the heat to low. This lower temperature will help control the subsequent caramelization process.

Step 7: Add Cream of Tartar (Optional)

Incorporating cream of tartar at this point prevents further crystallization of the sugar once it cools. Just add half a teaspoon of cream of tartar and mix thoroughly.

Step 8: Monitor the Temperature

Keep the pot or container on low heat and allow it to simmer. If you have a kitchen thermometer, measure the temperature of the mixture during this stage.

Step 9: Monitor the Color Change

As the temperature elevates, the sugar in the mixture will begin to caramelize, changing its color. At first, it may appear slightly amber, almost caramel-like. Keep a close eye on this color shift.

Step 10: Achieve Desired Color

Continue heating and stirring the mixture until it reaches your preferred color. Depending on your choice, you can obtain a light amber or a deeper amber hue.

Step 11: Stop the Cooking Process

Once the mixture has reached the desired amber color, remove the container from the heat immediately. This prevents the mixture from becoming too dark and bitter.

Step 12: Let It Cool

Allow the inverted sugar mixture to cool down to room temperature. This cooling period is essential to prevent the mixture from becoming too viscous or syrupy.

Step 13: Store the Inverted Sugar

The cooled inverted sugar can be stored in a sealed glass container in a cool and dry location, such as a pantry or cabinet. It can be kept for several weeks or even months.

Remember that inverted sugar's texture and flavor may vary depending on the amount of heating time and the desired amber color you achieve. This versatile ingredient is commonly used in various culinary applications to enhance flavor, texture, and moisture in baked goods, candy making, cocktails, and more.