A candy making temperature chart shows the sugar cooking stages and their temperature ranges. Enter your thermometer reading to identify your current stage and see what candies you can make.
Thermometer Reading
Candy Stage Reference Chart
| Stage | °F | °C | Uses |
|---|
Candy Making Temperature Guide
Sugar changes its physical properties dramatically with temperature. Below 320°F it dissolves in water and remains soft when cooled. Above 320°F it begins to caramelize and eventually hardens into brittle glass-like structures.
Accuracy Is Critical
A 5°F difference changes the stage. Always calibrate your thermometer by testing in boiling water — it should read 212°F (100°C) at sea level. Adjust your target temperatures up or down by the same amount it reads high or low.
Cold Water Test (Backup Method)
Drop a small amount of syrup into cold water and check the texture: soft ball (rounds up, squishes flat) = 235-240°F; firm ball (holds shape) = 245-250°F; hard ball (holds rigid shape) = 260-268°F; soft crack (forms threads, bends) = 270-290°F; hard crack (forms threads, snap) = 300-310°F.
FAQ
What temperature is soft ball stage?
Soft ball stage is 235-240°F (112-115°C). At this temperature, a small amount of syrup dropped in cold water forms a soft ball that flattens when removed. Used for fudge, pralines, and fondant.
What temperature is hard crack stage?
Hard crack is 300-310°F (149-154°C). Syrup dropped in cold water forms hard, brittle threads that snap. Used for lollipops, hard candy, and toffee.
What temperature is caramel made at?
Caramel begins at the firm ball stage (245°F/118°C) and continues into soft crack (270-290°F/132-143°C). Darker caramel flavor develops as temperature rises toward 340-360°F (171-182°C) where the sugar actually caramelizes.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
A candy thermometer is highly recommended. The cold water test (dropping syrup into ice water) works as a backup but requires practice. Temperature differences of 5°F can change the entire outcome — a thermometer removes the guesswork.
Is this tool free?
Yes, completely free.