Cinnamon Spiced Maple Syrup Taffy

Here’s an indigenous culinary tradition which inspired the French settlers, which in turn encouraged this variation. Quebec’s tire sur la neige, meaning taffy on the snow, is a naturally sweet treat made during late winter and early spring, when it’s time to drain the maple trees. This cinnamon-spiced version can be made year-round and offers four to six taffy popsicles.

• 1/2 c. maple syrup
• 1/4 tsp. Ceylon cinnamon
• 3 dashes of cayenne
• popsicle sticks

INSTRUCTIONS

Place a small cookie tray in the freezer to chill. Once the tray is cold, add the maple syrup into a sauce pan and bring to a simmer for about five minutes, adding the spices at about the four-minute mark. Setting a timer is recommended, but the true test of confirming its readiness is by taking a drop of the evaporated hot syrup into some cold water. When it is ready, it will form a ball when it hits the cold. Spoon thin layers onto the cookie tray. 

However, if you aren’t quick enough, they will harden or start to crystallize before you can roll them into taffy popsicles. It may be wise to do them in batches of three instead of spooning them down all at once, but still move quickly. About five to 10 seconds after placing the syrup onto the cold tray, take the popsicle stick and roll it up.