Homemade Black Licorice by Touch of Spice

glucose syrup

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: corn syrup

Honey adds natural sweetness while corn syrup is more affordable.

gelatin

🥗Healthier: agar-agar

💰Cheaper: pectin

Agar-agar is plant-based and suitable for vegetarians.

blackstrap molasses

🥗Healthier: maple syrup

💰Cheaper: regular molasses

Maple syrup provides a different flavor profile while regular molasses is less expensive.

anise extract

🥗Healthier: fennel extract

💰Cheaper: anise seeds

Fennel extract offers a similar flavor and anise seeds are more economical.

Heat all ingredients except food coloring and flour in a pan on medium heat.

Allow to come to a boil but stir constantly.

Test mixture by dropping a quarter teaspoon into cold water. If it balls up and can be rolled afterwards, it's ready. If you have a thermometer, it should reach 230-240 F.

Pour mixture into a well buttered baking dish (a bread pan will yield candies with ~1/4 inch thickness).

Cool in fridge for 30 mins.

Cut into squares or ropes and enjoy! Licorice will keep in fridge for up to 2 weeks or freezer (air tight sealed) for up to 3 months.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens