The Story Behind Salt Water Taffy
Have you ever wondered why salt water taffy is called as such? The candy’s name actually has nothing to do with its ingredients. Salt water taffy was invented in New Jersey in the late 1800s, where it was first sold on the boardwalks of Atlantic City. The candy became popular among beachgoers, who would get splashed by the waves and jokingly refer to the taffy as “salt water taffy.”
Why York Maine is Known for Its Salt Water Taffy
Today, salt water taffy can be found all along the East Coast, but York Maine is particularly famous for its taffy. The town has a long history of candy-making, dating back to the 1800s when local entrepreneurs began making fudge and other sweets to sell to tourists. Salt water taffy soon became a staple of the town’s candy shops, and today, visitors to York can still find a wide variety of taffy flavors and colors to choose from.
The Secret to Making the Perfect Salt Water Taffy
Making salt water taffy is no easy feat. The candy requires a delicate balance of ingredients, including sugar, corn syrup, and butter, which must be heated to just the right temperature before being pulled and stretched to create the taffy’s signature texture. To make matters even more complicated, different flavors require different cooking times and temperatures. It’s a labor-intensive process, but the end result is well worth it.
The Best Salt Water Taffy Shops in York Maine
If you’re planning a trip to York Maine, be sure to stop by one of the town’s many salt water taffy shops. Some of the most popular include Goldenrod Kisses, which has been making taffy since 1896, and Yummies, which offers more than 100 different taffy flavors. Be sure to try some of the classic flavors, like vanilla and chocolate, as well as some of the more unique options, like blueberry pancake and apple pie.
Why Salt Water Taffy is a Great Souvenir
Salt water taffy makes a great souvenir for a number of reasons. For one, it’s a tasty reminder of your trip to York Maine. Plus, it’s easy to transport – the candy is lightweight and won’t melt in your suitcase. Finally, salt water taffy is a classic East Coast treat that you won’t find just anywhere, making it a unique souvenir that your friends and family are sure to love.
Tips for Enjoying Salt Water Taffy
If you’ve never tried salt water taffy before, there are a few things to keep in mind. For one, the candy is very sweet – a little goes a long way. Plus, because it’s made with corn syrup, it’s stickier than other candies. Be sure to have a napkin or paper towel handy when you indulge. Finally, don’t be afraid to try different flavors – you might just discover a new favorite!
In Conclusion
Salt water taffy is a classic East Coast treat that has been enjoyed by generations of candy lovers. York Maine is particularly famous for its taffy, which can be found in a variety of flavors and colors in the town’s many candy shops. Whether you’re looking for a sweet souvenir or just want to indulge your sweet tooth, salt water taffy is a must-try treat.