How to Make Homemade Sailor Jacks
1. Cook the Candy Base
In a heavy saucepan, combine the molasses, sugar, butter, and vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once the mixture begins to boil, stop stirring and let it cook until it reaches the hard crack stage (around 260–270°F / 127–132°C).
This step is key—the temperature determines the final texture of the candy.
2. Add the Baking Soda
Remove the pan from the heat and carefully stir in the baking soda. The mixture will foam and lighten in color. This reaction gives Sailor Jacks their signature texture and slight airiness.
3. Pour and Cool
Quickly pour the hot candy onto a well-buttered baking sheet or marble slab. Let it cool just enough to handle but not fully harden.
4. Pull the Candy
Butter your hands and begin pulling and folding the candy repeatedly. As you work it, the candy will become lighter in color and firmer in texture.
5. Shape and Cut
Roll the candy into long ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces using buttered scissors or a knife. Allow the pieces to cool completely and harden.
Tips for Success
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Use a candy thermometer for accuracy
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Butter everything—hands, tools, and surfaces
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Work quickly but carefully; the candy sets fast
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Store in an airtight container to prevent sticking
Why Sailor Jacks Are Still Worth Making
Homemade Sailor Jacks are more than just candy—they’re a reminder of a slower, simpler kind of sweetness. They don’t shout for attention or overwhelm the palate. Instead, they offer warmth, chew, and a sense of tradition that’s hard to find in store-bought treats.
Whether you’re making them for the holidays, as a homemade gift, or just to experience a piece of culinary history, Sailor Jacks are proof that some recipes never need updating.
