Celebrate Halloween with Mary Janes 2023: America's Nostalgic Favorite Candy
What are Mary Janes?
Mary Janes are a piece of American confectionery history. These bite-sized, peanut and molasses-flavored treats have delighted generations of kids (and adults!) since their introduction in 1914.
The History of Mary Janes
The Mary Janes candy was introduced by the Charles N. Miller Company and named after the founder's daughter. The classic yellow-red-black wrapper with the image of a little girl has remained virtually unchanged for over a century.
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Why are Mary Janes a Halloween Classic?
Halloween and Mary Janes go hand in hand. The candies are a traditional component of Halloween candy mixes in the U.S. Their durable nature, ability to be purchased in large quantities, and sweet, satisfying taste have made them the perfect candy for Halloween Trick-or-Treat bags.
How are Mary Janes Made?
Mary Janes are made from a mix of molasses, sugar, and peanut butter. The ingredients are cooked until they reach a taffy-like consistency, and then cut into individual pieces and wrapped.
Homemade Mary Janes
A Classic Recipe to Make Your Own
Ingredients
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup butter or margarine
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
Step 1: Preparation:
Butter a square baking dish (about 9x9 inches) and set it aside. Measure all your ingredients and have them ready.
Step 2: Cooking Molasses and Sugar
Put the molasses, sugar, and water into a large, heavy pot. Cook the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step 3: Add the Butter
Add the butter and continue to cook the mixture until it reaches the "hard crack stage." This is the point when a drop of the mixture dropped into cold water forms a firm, yet flexible ball. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the Peanut Butter
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the peanut butter until the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Pour and Let Cool
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and let it cool completely.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
Cut the candy into small squares and wrap them in wax paper or cellophane. Now you can enjoy your homemade Mary Janes!
Homemade Mary Janes are a tasty treat you can prepare at home. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, but the result is a delicious candy that tastes just like the original.
Remember to always be careful when working with hot sugar solutions and to keep children away from the stove. Bon appétit!
Where Can You Buy Mary Janes?
Mary Janes can be found in most supermarkets and candy shops in the U.S. They can also be ordered online from various retailers, which is particularly handy if you want to stock up for Halloween.
Whether you love them for nostalgic reasons or they just satisfy your sweet tooth, Mary Janes are a staple in the Halloween candy scene. So, why not grab a few Mary Janes and get into the spirit of the season?
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