Homemade Brach’s Maple Nut Goodies Candy Recipe

Maple nut goodies are the vintage candy you didn’t know you needed—sweet, crunchy, chewy, and full of nostalgic charm in every bite.

What Makes This Recipe So Good

Brach’s Maple Nut Goodies are the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and chewy. The maple flavor isn’t just a whisper—it’s a full-on shout, thanks to real maple syrup or extract. The nuts add a satisfying crunch, and the texture? Think “melt-in-your-mouth-but-also-chewy” perfection. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make. No fancy equipment, no obscure ingredients—just pure, old-school candy magic.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this classic:

• 1 cup granulated sugar (because sweetness is non-negotiable)
• 1 cup light corn syrup (the glue holding it all together)
• 1 cup evaporated milk (for that creamy richness)
• 1 tsp maple extract (or real maple syrup if you’re fancy)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work best)
• 1 tbsp butter (because butter makes everything better)
• Pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps, and you’ll be swimming in maple nut goodness:

1. Prep your pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. No sticking, no crying.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and milk: Throw them in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil: Let it bubble away until it hits the soft-ball stage (235°F on a candy thermometer). No thermometer? Drop a bit in cold water—if it forms a soft ball, you’re golden.
4. Add the good stuff: Stir in butter, maple extract, and nuts. Mix like your life depends on it.
5. Pour and cool: Dump the mixture onto the prepared pan and let it set. Patience is a virtue, but we won’t judge if you sneak a bite early.

Storage Instructions

Store these bad boys in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last up to two weeks—if they survive that long. Pro tip: Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. No one wants a clump of candy chaos.

Benefits of maple nut goodies

Besides being delicious, these candies are easy to customize. Swap nuts, adjust sweetness, or add a dash of vanilla. They’re also great for gifting—because nothing says “I love you” like homemade candy. Plus, they’re a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Who needs therapy when you have maple nut goodies?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls unless you enjoy disappointment:

• Overcooking the syrup: Burnt sugar is bitter, and no one wants that.
• Skimping on the nuts: They’re called Maple Nut Goodies for a reason.
• Not using a thermometer: Guessing games lead to sticky disasters.

Alternatives

Feel like mixing it up? Try these swaps:

• Almonds or cashews instead of walnuts or pecans.
• Honey or brown rice syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Vanilla or cinnamon extract for a twist on the maple flavor.

Homemade Maple Nut Goodies

Ethan Walker

Sweet, chewy, and crunchy vintage candy loaded with maple flavor and nuts. An easy, nostalgic treat you can whip up with simple ingredients—no candy store required!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings 40 pieces

Calories 90 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 tsp maple extract or use 1/4 cup real maple syrup and reduce corn syrup slightly
• 1 cup chopped nuts walnuts or pecans recommended
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 pinch salt

Instructions

 

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
• In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and evaporated milk over medium heat. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
• Bring mixture to a boil and cook until it reaches the soft-ball stage (235°F), stirring frequently.
• Remove from heat and stir in butter, maple extract (or syrup), nuts, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
• Pour the candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Let cool at room temperature for 1–2 hours or until set.
• Cut or break into pieces and store in an airtight container with parchment between layers.

Notes

Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For variety, use almonds or cashews, add vanilla or cinnamon extract, or adjust sweetness with honey or brown rice syrup. Don’t skip the thermometer—getting the temperature right is key to texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 90kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gFat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 15mgPotassium: 25mgSugar: 13gVitamin A: 50IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.3mg

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

FAQ about maple nut goodies

Can I use real maple syrup instead of extract?

Absolutely! Use ¼ cup of real maple syrup and reduce the corn syrup slightly. The flavor will be richer, and your inner food snob will thank you.

Why did my candy turn out too hard?

You probably overcooked the syrup. Next time, pull it off the heat at 235°F. Candy thermometers are your friend.

Can I make these without nuts?

Sure, but then they’re just Maple Goodies. Still tasty, but missing the crunch. IMO, nuts are worth it.

How long does it take for the candy to set?

About 1–2 hours at room temperature. If you’re impatient, pop them in the fridge for 30 minutes. No judgment.

Final Thoughts

Brach’s Maple Nut Goodies are the candy equivalent of a warm hug. They’re easy to make, impossible to resist, and packed with nostalgia. Whether you’re a candy newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a winner. So grab your saucepan, channel your inner 1920s candy maker, and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you.