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Patience Loaf

Patience Loaf recipe image
This vintage Patience Loaf is a classic pulled sugar confection that requires careful attention and steady hands. Unlike baked goods, this dessert relies on the precise cooking of sugar and milk to create a smooth, creamy texture that sets into a firm, chewy candy. The process involves melting sugar to the soft-ball stage, then vigorously beating the mixture as it cools until it becomes white and fluffy. The resulting "loaf" is traditionally rolled in chopped pecans, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the sweet, caramel-like center. It is a nostalgic treat perfect for holiday gatherings or as a unique gift, showcasing the art of traditional sugar work.
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 24
Calories: 1006.1
Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegetarian
Description
This vintage Patience Loaf is a classic pulled sugar confection that requires careful attention and steady hands. Unlike baked goods, this dessert relies on the precise cooking of sugar and milk to create a smooth, creamy texture that sets into a firm, chewy candy. The process involves melting sugar to the soft-ball stage, then vigorously beating the mixture as it cools until it becomes white and fluffy. The resulting "loaf" is traditionally rolled in chopped pecans, adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the sweet, caramel-like center. It is a nostalgic treat perfect for holiday gatherings or as a unique gift, showcasing the art of traditional sugar work.
Ingredients
  • 2 cup Milk
  • 4 cup Sugar; divided
  • 1 tablespoon Butter
Directions
  1. 1
    Pour the milk into a large heavy-bottomed saucepan and place over medium heat.
  2. 2
    In a separate small skillet, melt 1 cup of the sugar over medium heat until it becomes a clear liquid.
  3. 3
    Carefully pour the melted sugar into the milk, stirring constantly to dissolve any lumps.
  4. 4
    Add the remaining 3 cups of sugar and the butter to the milk mixture.
  5. 5
    Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it reaches the soft-ball stage (238&# 194;°F/114ðC), where a small amount dropped into cold water forms a firm ball that can be rolled between your fingers.
  6. 6
    Remove the pan from the heat and reserve 1/2 cup of the hot syrup in a separate bowl to keep warm.
  7. 7
    Allow the main batch to cool slightly, then beat vigorously with a wooden spoon or electric mixer until the mixture turns creamy, white, and thick enough to hold its shape.
  8. 8
    Turn the beaten mixture onto a damp cloth or wax paper and shape it into a loaf.
  9. 9
    Brush the top of the loaf with the reserved hot syrup.
  10. 10
    Roll the loaf in chopped pecans, pressing gently to adhere.
  11. 11
    Let the loaf cool completely until firm before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 24

Amount Per Serving
Calories 1006.1kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 4.2g7%
Saturated Fat 2.8g14%
Cholesterol 10.5mg4%
Sodium 74.5mg4%
Total Carbohydrate 246.0g82%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 246.0g
Protein 4.1g9%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: candy, sugar, pecans, vintage, confection, homemade, holiday, treat, chewy, dessert, traditional, nutty, sweet, loaf, recipe, 1920s, gift, classic, patience, cooking
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/patience-loaf/