Hard candies

Hard candies are a type of solid and translucent sweet, generally made from sugar cooked until it reaches a rigid and crunchy texture. Their flavor can range from very sweet to sour or mentholated, depending on the added ingredients and flavorings. These candies are enjoyed by licking them slowly to savor their flavor and to prevent them from dissolving too quickly.

Their origin dates back to European confectionery traditions from several centuries ago, where sugar was worked to create different types of sweets. Today, hard candies are popular all over the world and are used both as treats and in gastronomy to decorate desserts or add flavor to infusions and sauces.

Regarding their properties, hard candies are a quick source of energy due to their high sugar content. They contain no fats or proteins and their nutritional value is limited, so their consumption should be moderate. Furthermore, some candies include functional ingredients like menthol or eucalyptus, which can offer a refreshing effect or temporarily relieve throat discomfort.

In different regions of Latin America, hard candies may also be known as pastillas, paletas duras, caramelos cristal, or simply dulces duros. Each term may vary depending on the country and local tradition.

In cooking recipes, hard candies are used to add sweetness, texture, or aroma to preparations such as desserts, ice creams, cocktails, or even savory dishes with a sweet touch.