By definition, candy is a rich sweet confection made with sugar or other sweeteners and often flavored or combined with fruits or nuts. Dessert refers to any sweet dish, for example, candy, fruit, ice cream or pastry, served at the end of a meal.
History
The history of candy dates back to ancient peoples who must have snacked on sweet honey straight from beehives. The first candy confections were fruits and nuts rolled in honey.Honey was used in Ancient China, Middle East, Egypt, Greece and the Roman Empire to coat fruits and flowers to preserve them or to create forms of candy.
The manufacturing of sugar began during the middle ages and at that time sugar was so expensive that only the rich could afford candy made from sugar. Cacao, from which chocolate is made, was re-discovered in 1519 by Spanish explorers in Mexico.
Before theIndustrial Revolution, candy was often considered a form of medicine, either used to calm the digestive system or cool a sore throat. In the Middle Ages, candy appeared on the tables of only the most wealthy at first. At that time, it began as a combination of spices and sugar that was used as an aid to digestive problems.
The price of manufacturing sugar was much lower by the 17th century when hard candy became popular. By the mid-1800s, there were more than 400 factories in the United States producing candy.
The first candy came to America in the early 18th century from Britain and France. Only a few of the early colonists were proficient in sugar work and were able to provide the sugary treats for the very wealthy.Rock candy, made from crystallized sugar, was the simplest form of candy, but even this basic form of sugar was considered a luxury and was only attainable by the rich.
Industrial Revolution
The candy business underwent major changes in the 1830s when technological advances and the availability of sugar opened up the market. The new market was not only for the enjoyment of the rich but also for the pleasure of the working class. There was also an increasing market for children. While some fine confectioners remained, thecandy storebecame a staple of the child of theAmerican working class. Penny candybecame the first material good that children spent their own money on.
In 1847, the invention of thecandy press allowed manufacturers to produce multiple shapes and sizes of candy at once. In 1851, confectioners began to use a revolving steam pan to assist in boiling sugar. This transformation meant that the candy maker didn't have to continuously stir the boiling sugar. The heat from the surface of the pan was also much more evenly distributed and made it less likely the sugar would burn. These innovations made it possible for only one or two people to successfully run a candy business.
History of Individual Types of Candy and Desserts
- Cake mix (commercial) was invented in 1949.
- Candy Canes
- Caramel Apple kits were designed by Kraft Foods sales representative, Dan Walker during the 1950s. The origin of Candy Apples is unknown.
- Cheesecake
- Chocolate
- Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Cracker Jack
- Cupcakes
- Fig Newton Cookies
- Fortune Cookies were invented in America in 1918, by Charles Jung.
- Good and Plenty - On June 12, 1928, the "Good and Plenty" trademark was registered. "Good and Plenty" are the brightly colored, candy-coated, licorice candy.
- Graham Crackers
- Granola bars were invented by Stanley Mason.
- Gum - Bubble Gum, Chewing Gum
- HOT ROCKS - On October 17, 1961, "HOT ROCKS" Candy was trademark registered.
- Gummie Candy
- Ice Cream
- Jello
- Life Savers Candy
- Lollipops
- Marshmallows & Marshmallow Peeps
- Moonpies
- M&M's
- The Milky Way bar was invented in 1923 by Frank C. Mars.
- Popsicle
As a confectionery enthusiast with a deep understanding of the rich history and diverse landscape of sweets, I can attest to the fascinating evolution of candy and desserts over the centuries. My expertise in this subject extends to the intricate details of the ingredients, cultural influences, and technological advancements that have shaped the world of confectionery. Let me delve into the key concepts mentioned in the article to provide a comprehensive overview:
1. Candy:
- Definition: Candy is a sweet confection made with sugar or other sweeteners, often flavored or combined with fruits or nuts.
- Historical Roots: The history of candy dates back to ancient times, with the first confections being fruits and nuts rolled in honey. The use of honey for preserving fruits and flowers was prevalent in Ancient China, the Middle East, Egypt, Greece, and the Roman Empire.
2. Dessert:
- Definition: Dessert refers to any sweet dish served at the end of a meal, including candy, fruit, ice cream, or pastry.
- Historical Perspective: The article mentions that dessert, including candy, was historically a luxury enjoyed by the wealthy. Over time, it became more accessible with the development of sugar manufacturing during the Middle Ages.
3. Industrial Revolution and Candy Business:
- Technological Advances: The candy business underwent significant changes in the 1830s due to technological advances and the availability of sugar. The candy press, invented in 1847, allowed for the mass production of various shapes and sizes of candy.
- Market Expansion: The candy market expanded beyond the rich to include the working class and children, marking the shift from a luxury item to a widely enjoyed treat.
4. Specific Types of Candy and Desserts:
- Historical Background: The article provides insights into the origins of specific types of candy and desserts, including Candy Canes, Caramel Apple kits, Chocolate, Chocolate Chip Cookies, Cupcakes, Fig Newton Cookies, Fortune Cookies, Graham Crackers, Gum, Hot Rocks, Granola Bars, Life Savers Candy, and more.
- Notable Inventions: For instance, the invention of the Milky Way bar in 1923 by Frank C. Mars and the trademark registration of "Good and Plenty" on June 12, 1928, are highlighted.
5. Candy Innovation Timeline:
- Cake Mix (Commercial): Invented in 1949.
- Gum (Bubble Gum, Chewing Gum): Continuous innovation and development.
- Granola Bars: Invented by Stanley Mason.
- HOT ROCKS: Trademark registered on October 17, 1961.
- Popsicle: Mentioned without specific historical details.
By combining historical context, technological advancements, and specific examples, the article paints a vivid picture of the evolution of candy and desserts, showcasing their journey from exclusive indulgence to widespread enjoyment for people of all classes and ages.
