Spoons in candymaking – wooden or metal?

Wooden spoons or metal when making candy? Truth be told – both are used in making candy.  Each has its own purpose and reasons behind it. So let’s explore the purposes and reasons.

Wooden Spoons

Wooden spoons are a wonderful candy making utensil. Wood does not conduct heat therefore they can handle higher heats. Candies that reach 250 to 310 degrees Fahrenheit need a wooden spoon for stirring.  They also allow you to stir thick candies with ease. We exclusively use wooden spoons when stirring caramel popcorn or very large batches of candies. Wooden spoons can be used to stir candy that is being cooked as long as the candy does not have a chance of scorching. Flat wire whisks are best for that.

Metal Spoons

Metal spoons are recommended when there is only a small amount of ingredients to be stirred. When stirring 2 cups of liquid and gelatin for marshmallows, there is no need to reach for a long handled wooden spoon to stir for a couple of minutes. Metal spoons conduct heat which means when they get hot, they stay hot. Therefore, metal spoons are not recommended for candies that take more than a few minutes to cook.

What is your preference - wooden or metal?

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