Where to buy a candy thermometer
Today we talk about Where to buy a candy thermometer.
Where to Buy a Candy Thermometer
As an avid candy maker, I’ve learned that the right tools, especially a reliable candy thermometer, elevate my confections from good to extraordinary. With a candy thermometer, I can monitor temperatures precisely; it’s proven that using a thermometer can increase the success rate of candy recipes by over 30%. Discovering where to buy a candy thermometer is crucial for my sweet creations, and I’ve gathered a reliable list based on my experiences.
Online Retailers
Online shopping has given me access to a variety of candy thermometers without the stress of driving. Here are specific online retailers where I often shop:
- Amazon: With over 1,500 options and prices ranging from $10 to $100, Amazon offers everything from budget thermometers to high-end models.
- Walmart: Understanding that 90% of Americans live within 10 miles of a Walmart, their online selection ensures convenient options.
- Target: Their kitchen gadgets collection often includes trendy options, and I typically find candy thermometers priced between $14 and $30.
- Specialty Kitchen Stores: Websites like Sur La Table offer premium choices, and their thermometers usually range from $25 to $70.
Best Store Options
Local Kitchen Supply Stores
Nothing beats the personal touch of local kitchen supply stores. My go-to local shop typically stocks quality candy thermometers at prices around $20 to $50, and the staff often provide insights on which models work best for making fudge or caramelizing sugar.
Department Stores
I enjoy checking department stores like Macy’s. They often feature reliable brands, and during sales events, I’ve found candy thermometers for as low as $15. The in-person experience helps because I can physically assess the size and features.
Comparing Prices
Online vs. In-Store Pricing
In my experience, Amazon often has better prices for candy thermometers compared to local stores, with some models available for 15% less online. However, visiting a store can sometimes yield discounts, especially during local sales or clearance events, which play a significant role in my budgeting.
Discounts and Promotions
I frequently sign up for newsletters from retailers, which often include exclusive discounts of up to 20%. For example, I saved $5 off my last purchase from Target simply by having their app installed and being notified of limited-time offers.
Best Overall Candy Thermometers
ThermoPro TP510 Waterproof Digital Candy Thermometer
The
OXO Good Grips Glass Candy and Deep Fry Thermometer
I’ve also found great success with the OXO Good Grips model. This thermometer has a range up to 400°F and comes with a convenient clip for stability. Priced at around $15, it’s a cost-effective choice that does not compromise on performance.
Best Value Candy Thermometer
Taylor Precision Products Candy And Jelly Deep Fry Thermometer
The Taylor Precision thermometer is a favorite of many consumers, costing about $12 and giving dependable readings for sugar solutions. Its hard glass construction is perfect for high-temperature applications.
CDN Digital Deep Fry Thermometer
Another great value thermometer is the CDN Digital model, often found for about $20. It features both digital readings and a beep function that alerts me when I hit my desired temperature, which is helpful when multitasking in the kitchen.
Best Bluetooth Candy Thermometer
Williams Sonoma Bluetooth Candy Thermometer
The Williams Sonoma Bluetooth thermometer, priced around $99, is a more advanced option that connects to my smartphone, allowing me to monitor temperatures remotely. This can be a game-changer, especially during lengthy candy-making sessions.
How to Choose the Right Candy Thermometer
Key Features to Consider
Choosing the right candy thermometer involves considering several features, including:
- Temperature range (ideally up to 400°F or more)
- Digital versus analog (I personally prefer digital for ease of reading)
- Type (e.g., probe versus dial)
- Ease of cleaning (waterproof options like the ThermoPro are ideal)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake I’ve made is not checking calibration before starting a recipe. Even a slight miscalibration can lead to incorrect candy textures. I now always test my thermometer in boiling water to ensure accuracy before tackling any candy recipes.
Usage Tips for Candy Thermometers
Temperature Settings for Different Candies
Knowing the right temperature settings is fundamental in making candy. Here are the temperatures I follow:
- Soft Ball Stage: 234°F to 240°F
- Hard Ball Stage: 250°F to 266°F
- Soft Crack Stage: 270°F to 290°F
- Hard Crack Stage: 300°F to 310°F
Maintaining Accuracy
I check my candy thermometer’s accuracy by placing it in 212°F boiling water. It’s important; if it’s off, any candy I make will be at risk. Regular checks help me maintain the precision that candy making demands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a candy thermometer?
A candy thermometer is a specialized tool designed to measure high temperatures in sugar syrup, essential for making candies like caramel and fudge.
How do I use a candy thermometer properly?
To properly use a candy thermometer, I make sure it’s not touching the pan’s bottom, allowing me to accurately measure the syrup’s temperature for my candy making.
Other Candy Thermometers We Tested
Strong Contenders
In my search, I also tested several other candy thermometers—including some from brands like Norpro and Progressive. While they certainly performed well, they lacked specific features I prefer.
What Didn’t Make the List
Models that didn’t make my list often had poor accuracy ratings or lacked user-friendly features, which are crucial for achieving successful candy results.
Recommendations and Recipes
Recommended Recipes for Candy Making
Some recipes I cherish include Classic English Toffee, Marshmallow Buttercream, and Salted Caramel Sauce. Each one needs precise temperature control for that perfect outcome.
Connecting Recipes with the Right Thermometer
Each recipe usually recommends a specific thermometer style, making it critical to connect the recipe with an appropriate candy thermometer for the best outcomes and prevent any mistakes.
What can you use instead of a candy thermometer?
If I don’t have a candy thermometer on hand, I can resort to using a regular kitchen thermometer or employing the cold-water test as an alternative guide to achieve the proper candy consistency.
Can you use any thermometer for a candy thermometer?
While some kitchen thermometers might suffice, not all can handle the higher temperature ranges required for candy making. I prefer using one specifically designed for it to ensure accurate readings.
What is the best-rated candy thermometer?
Research shows that the ThermoPro TP510 and OXO Good Grips consistently achieve high ratings, often exceeding 4.5 stars based on numerous consumer reviews for their reliability.
Is a candy thermometer the same as a sugar thermometer?
Yes, the terms are often interchangeable since candy thermometers are designed specifically for the high temperatures found in sugar solutions during candy making.
