When it comes to making candies, achieving the right temperature is crucial. The difference between a perfect batch and a disastrous one often hinges on a few degrees. An inaccurate or unreliable thermometer can cause the temperature to overshoot or undershoot, resulting in a less-than-stellar product.
For this reason, selecting a trustworthy kitchen thermometer is a critical task. Whether it’s for meat, water, or candy, the thermometer you choose must offer accurate and quick readings. In this article, we will explore the best thermometers for candy making, discussing the features you should look for and highlighting top-tested models from reliable brands like Thermapen, Thermoworks, and Spruce Eats.
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Consider Digital Thermometers
Digital thermometers are a popular choice among candy makers, and for good reason. They offer instant, precise temperature readings, making them an indispensable tool in your candy-making arsenal.
Digital thermometers come in various forms, but probe thermometers are often preferred due to their versatility. These thermometers feature a probe that you insert into the candy mixture to measure its internal temperature. Digital probe thermometers typically have a high degree of accuracy, ensuring that your candy reaches the perfect temperature every time.
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One top-tested model in this category is the Thermapen MK4. It’s known for its speedy, accurate readings and a rotating display that makes it easy to read from any angle. Another reliable option is the Thermoworks ChefAlarm, a probe thermometer that offers a continuous temperature display, allowing you to monitor the temperature without disturbing your candy.
Thermometers with Deep Temperature Range
Candy making involves heating sugar mixtures to high temperatures. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a thermometer that can withstand deep temperatures.
Some candies, such as hard candies or toffees, require temperatures reaching up to 300°F. Not all kitchen thermometers are designed to handle such high cooking temperatures. Look for thermometers labeled as "candy" or "deep-frying" thermometers, as these are typically capable of measuring higher temperature ranges.
The CDN DTC450 Digital Pre-Programmed & Programmable Candy Thermometer is a great choice in this regard. It has a temperature range from -40 to 450°F, making it more than capable of handling the heat required for candy making.
Thermometers with Instant Read
When making candy, speed matters. The temperature of your candy mixture can rise rapidly, and if you’re not quick enough, it could easily overshoot the desired temperature. That’s where instant-read thermometers come in.
Instant-read thermometers, as the name suggests, provide immediate temperature readings. This feature is crucial in helping you respond promptly to changes in temperature, ensuring that your candy doesn’t burn or crystallize prematurely.
Spruce Eats Instant-Read Thermometer is an excellent choice if speed is a priority. With a reading time of just 2-3 seconds, it ensures you’ll always have the most up-to-date temperature information at hand.
Thermometers with Clear Display
A thermometer with a clear, easy-to-read display can make your candy making experience much more straightforward. This is especially true if you’re dealing with high-temperature mixtures, where quick, accurate readings are essential.
A thermometer with a large digital display is often the best choice. Backlit displays are a bonus, as they make it easier to read the temperature in low-light conditions. Thermometers with rotating displays are also handy, as they allow you to read the temperature from any angle.
The Thermoworks Thermapen is renowned for its clear, rotating display. With a large digital screen and backlight, it ensures that you can easily monitor the temperature, no matter the lighting conditions.
Thermometers with Adjustable Probe
An adjustable probe can be a beneficial feature when making candy. Depending on the size of your pot or the amount of mixture you’re cooking, you may need to adjust the depth of the probe to obtain an accurate temperature reading.
Thermometers with an adjustable probe allow you to customize the probe’s depth, ensuring that it’s fully immersed in the mixture. This feature can significantly improve the accuracy of your readings and ultimately, the quality of your candy.
One thermometer with this feature is the Thermoworks Dot. Its adjustable probe provides you the flexibility you need when making candies, ensuring you can always reach the perfect temperature.
In conclusion, choosing a reliable kitchen thermometer for candy making doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With an understanding of what to look for and reviews of top-tested models, you’re well on your way to creating perfect candies every time. Remember to consider factors such as the type of thermometer, temperature range, reading speed, display clarity, and flexibility of the probe. Happy candy making!
Thermometers with Alert Features
An often overlooked feature in candy thermometers is the ability to set alerts. This can be particularly useful in candy making where precise temperature control is vital. Thermometers with alert features allow you to set a specific temperature, and the device will beep or flash when that temperature is reached. This can help prevent the risk of overheating and ruining your batch of candy.
A perfect example of a thermometer with an alert feature is the Thermoworks ChefAlarm. This probe thermometer not only offers precise readings, but also has an alarm that sounds when your desired temperature is reached. It also includes a timer function, adding to its convenience. Whether you’re busy with other tasks in the kitchen or momentarily distracted, the Thermoworks ChefAlarm has you covered.
Another highly recommended alert thermometer is the Spruce Eats Russell Kilgore Instant-Read Thermometer. Renowned for its speed and accuracy, it also features an audible alert when your set temperature is reached. This instant-read thermometer also has a large, easy-to-read display, making monitoring your candy’s temperature a breeze.
Thermometer Durability and Ease of Cleaning
When purchasing a kitchen thermometer, especially one for candy making, durability should be a key consideration. Candy making often involves high temperatures, sticky mixtures, and frequent use, so a thermometer that is robust and easy to clean will serve you well in the long run.
Probe thermometers, famous for their precision in candy making, are typically made from stainless steel, ensuring they are sturdy and resilient. Look for models that are water-resistant or waterproof for easy cleaning.
The Amazon View Meat Thermometer is a top choice for durability and ease of cleaning. It features a waterproof design and a probe made from food-grade stainless steel. This meat thermometer can withstand the rigors of candy making and other cooking tasks, delivering reliable results every time.
Equally, the Serious Eats Tested & Reviewed Candy Thermometer offers a robust design with a waterproof rating. This candy thermometer also features an easy-clean surface, making it ideal for sticky candy mixtures.
In Conclusion
In the world of candy making, having an accurate and reliable thermometer can be the difference between success and disappointment. Remember to consider features like the type of thermometer, temperature range, reading speed, alert settings, and the thermometer’s durability and ease of cleaning. On top of that, an adjustable probe and easy-to-read display can also significantly enhance your candy making experience.
Whether you opt for the instant-read precision of the Spruce Eats Russell Kilgore thermometer or the robust and alert-equipped Thermoworks ChefAlarm, you’re making a smart choice. With the right thermometer, you’ll be a step closer to creating delectable candies every time. Happy candy making!