You Haven’t Lived Until You’ve Had a Piece of Kentucky Cream Candy

Kentucky is known for multiple dishes and specific foods whose popularity has leapt beyond the Commonwealth's borders. The Kentucky Hot Brown comes to mind, and, honestly, there isn't a better open-faced sandwich on the planet, in my humble opinion. Calling it a "sandwich" seems like I'm underselling it, but that's what it is.

Kentucky Bourbon Balls

The Bluegrass State also hits home runs with, among other things, barbecue, burgoo, mint juleps, and bourbon balls, which were invented by substitute teachers Ruth Booe and Rebecca Gooch in Frankfort in 1919. Those unparalleled morsels were the cornerstone of Rebecca Ruth Candy, which is still in operation today.

Some sources cite biscuits and gravy as a Kentucky food, but that dish is popular nationwide, and we're thankful for that. But back to that list. I wanted to end with bourbon balls because that's a good segue into another candy we're proud of here in the Commonwealth, and that's Kentucky Cream Candy.

Read More: Tour the KY Candy Factory Where Bourbon Balls Were Invented

Kentucky Cream Candy

It doesn't have the high profile of bourbon balls, but Kentucky Cream Candy should. If you've ever had a piece, you know I'm right. Ruth Booe and Rebecca Gooch would agree; cream candy is their handiwork as well. If you stop by the shop in Frankfort, you'd better grab a bag. Ruth Hunt Candies, which ships to other stores throughout Kentucky, also sells it.

How to Make Kentucky Cream Candy

But if you can't get to a vendor that sells this life-altering treat, you can make it at home. You just need the following...

3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup light corn syrup (optional)
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Butter, for greasing hands and surface

And now, Melanie Wells will show you what to do next.

Bourbon balls rock, and I love them, but do not sleep on Kentucky Cream Candy. I want a piece right now so bad, I can't see straight.