Are Candy Canes Gluten Free? Let’s Find Out!

Published by Becky | Last updated 26th November, 2024

Ah, the festive season is upon us, and with it comes the delightful sight of candy canes adorning Christmas trees and shop windows across the country.

But, for those of us navigating the sometimes tricky waters of gluten-free living, a question arises: Are these striped treats safe to enjoy?

Let’s unwrap this sweet mystery, shall we?

are candy canes gluten free

Table of Contents

Question

Are candy canes gluten-free?

Answer

Traditionally, candy canes are a simple confection. The basic recipe typically includes sugar, corn syrup, flavouring (usually peppermint), and food colouring.

At first glance, this ingredient list appears to be free from gluten-containing culprits. However, as any seasoned coeliac knows, the devil is often in the details.

The Basics of Candy Canes

A Closer Look at Ingredients

Let’s examine the common ingredients found in candy canes:

Sugar: Generally gluten-free, unless contaminated during processing.
Corn syrup is Typically gluten-free.
Peppermint flavouring: Usually gluten-free, but it’s wise to verify.
Food colouring Most are gluten-free, but caution is advised.

Additional Ingredients to Watch

Some manufacturers may include additional ingredients:

Calcium carbonate: Often used for a glossy finish, it’s typically gluten-free.
Glycerine: Usually gluten-free, but vegans should note it may contain animal products.
Palm oil or coconut oil: Naturally gluten-free.
Tapioca syrup: A gluten-free alternative to corn syrup.

The Cross-Contamination Conundrum

While the ingredients themselves may be gluten-free, the production process can introduce risks. Cross-contamination is a significant concern for those with coeliac disease or severe gluten sensitivity. Many candy manufacturers produce a variety of sweets, some of which may contain gluten.

If proper cleaning protocols aren’t followed between production runs, gluten can find its way into otherwise “safe” products.

Gluten-Free Brands and Options

Fear not, dear readers! There are indeed gluten-free candy canes available for your holiday enjoyment. Some brands have taken the extra step to ensure their festive treats are safe for those avoiding gluten.

Sweet Organics: This brand offers candy canes made with organic ingredients and produced on dedicated gluten-free equipment. However, they do note potential cross-contact with other allergens in their facility.

Yum Earth: Known for its allergy-friendly sweets, Yum Earth produces candy canes free from the top 9 allergens, including gluten.
Spangler Candy: Spangler, a well-known candy manufacturer, provides allergen information for their products, including candy canes. While not all of their products are gluten-free, they do offer options that are.

If you are researching for Christmas treats then check out my article about are Roses gluten free.

Make your own Candy-canes

Here’s a delightful recipe for making your own homemade candy canes, perfect for the festive season. This recipe combines traditional techniques with a modern twist, ensuring you create delicious, minty treats that will impress family and friends.

Ingredients

2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup water
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 teaspoon red food colouring (gel or liquid)
Butter or non-stick cooking spray (for greasing surfaces)

Equipment Needed

Heavy-bottomed saucepan
Candy thermometer
Heat-resistant gloves
Wooden spoon
Baking sheets
Marble slab or non-stick surface
Kitchen shears

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Workstation: Before you begin, make sure your workstation is ready. Grease your baking sheets with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent the candy from sticking. If you have a marble slab, this is ideal for pouring the hot candy mixture.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients; In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 3: Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Do not stir once it starts boiling; this can cause the sugar to crystallise. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. You want to cook it until it reaches the hard-ball stage, which is about 265°F (130°C).

Step 4: Add Flavouring: Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from heat and quickly stir in the peppermint extract. Be careful, as the steam can be quite hot!

Step 5: Colour the Candy: Divide the hot candy mixture into two portions. Pour one portion onto your greased marble slab or baking sheet. Add red food colouring to the second portion while it’s still warm and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Pulling the Candy: Allow both portions to cool slightly until they are manageable but still warm enough to work with. Put on your heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands from burns. Begin pulling one portion of candy (the white one) by stretching and folding it over itself repeatedly until it becomes shiny and opaque. This process helps incorporate air into the candy, creating that lovely texture we associate with traditional candy canes. Do the same with the red portion but pull it less vigorously; it should remain somewhat glassy.

Step 7: Forming Candy Canes: Once both portions are ready, roll out the white candy into a long log about 12–18 inches in length. For the red candy, roll it into thinner ropes of about 12–18 inches as well. Now, take both logs and press them together gently to form a single piece of candy that has stripes running along its length. To create the iconic cane shape, cut segments of about 8 inches from this combined piece and gently bend one end to form a hook.

Step 8: Setting and Storing: Place your newly formed candy canes on a lightly greased platter or baking sheet to cool completely. Once they are set and hardened (which may take several hours), store them in an airtight container away from humidity.

Tips for Candy Cane Success

Temperature Control: Ensure your thermometer is calibrated correctly for accurate results.
Safety First: Always use gloves when handling hot sugar syrup to avoid burns.
Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to add different extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist on traditional peppermint.

Making homemade candy canes is not only a fun holiday activity but also allows you to enjoy fresh, delicious treats that can be customised to your taste.

Whether you hang them on your Christmas tree or share them as gifts, these delightful confections are sure to bring joy during the festive season. Enjoy your sweet creations!

Reading labels is a skill

When in doubt, always check the label. In the UK and EU, allergen labelling laws require clear identification of gluten-containing ingredients. Look for statements like “Contains: Wheat” or “May contain traces of gluten.”

However, it’s worth noting that not all manufacturers voluntarily label for potential cross-contamination.

Beyond the Candy Cane: Festive Alternatives

If you’re still unsure about candy canes or simply fancy a change, there are plenty of gluten-free options to bring a touch of peppermint to your holiday:

Peppermint bark: Many brands offer gluten-free versions of this chocolate-peppermint treat.
Candy floss: Often naturally gluten-free, you can find peppermint-flavoured varieties.
Peppermint tea: A warming, gluten-free alternative to sweet treats.

The Importance of Vigilance

While many candy canes are indeed gluten-free, it’s crucial to remain vigilant. Manufacturers can change recipes or production processes without notice. What was safe last Christmas might not be this year. As frustrating as it may be, it’s always best to double-check, even with familiar products.

A Word on Cross-Contact

It’s worth noting that even if a candy cane is labelled gluten-free, those with severe sensitivities should be cautious about how it’s handled. If a gluten-free candy cane is hung on a Christmas tree alongside gluten-containing ornaments or treats, there’s a risk of cross-contact.

In such cases, it might be wise to keep your safe treats separate.

The Bigger Picture: Enjoying the Holidays Safely

While it’s lovely to indulge in traditional treats, remember that the holiday season is about more than just sweets. If you find yourself struggling to find safe options, consider starting new traditions. Perhaps you could make your own gluten-free peppermint treats or focus on non-food aspects of the festivities.

So, are candy canes gluten-free? The answer is a cautious “often, yes, but not always.” Many traditional candy canes are made with gluten-free ingredients, but the risks of cross-contamination mean that not all are safe for those with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Fortunately, there are certified gluten-free options available, and with careful label reading and perhaps a bit of research, you can find ways to enjoy this festive treat safely.

Remember, when in doubt, reach out to the manufacturer directly. Most are happy to provide detailed allergen information.

And if all else fails, there’s always the option of making your own gluten-free candy canes – a fun holiday activity!

Hey, I run a recipe site – can you blame me 😉

Since it is coming up to the Christmas season, if you are looking for more gluten-free Christmas information then take a look at my collection of “Is it gluten free?” articles:

If you want to gain a competitive edge on this year’s family trivia games, check out this awesome collection of Christmas trivia. It has so much trivia, you will be a force to be reckoned with at trivia games this Christmas! You’re welcome.

With a bit of care and creativity, everyone can find ways to make their Christmas merry, bright, and deliciously gluten-free!

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Becky Terrell ✍️

Becky avatar Hi, I am Becky. I am a passionate recipe maker and having been a coeliac (celiac) for 30+ years I focus on gluten-free recipes. My blog is my online cookbook of gluten-free tasty recipes. You can follow me on X: @beckygwg
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