Were you aware that the world’s largest candy cane, measuring 63 feet tall, was created in 2011?
Who doesn’t enjoy the red and white striped, peppermint-flavored candy sticks?
They are mainly associated with Christmas and can serve as a delightful treat or a traditional Christmas tree decoration.
If you’re a fan of this Christmas candy or just want to know more, take a look at these 15 fascinating facts about candy canes.
National Candy Cane Day is celebrated on December 26 in the United States.
The world’s largest candy cane, measuring 63 feet tall, was created in 2011.
The average-sized candy cane (5 inches) weighs approximately half an ounce and contains only 50 calories.
Candy canes do not contain any fat or cholesterol.
When turned upside down, a candy cane reveals the letter J, which many believe represents Jesus.
Many people believe that the white of the candy cane represents the purity of Jesus.
Initially, candy canes were only white and did not have their distinctive bend.
The first candy cane was made over 350 years ago.
The candy cane was first associated with Christmas in 1874.
In 1882, candy canes were first hung on Christmas trees.
The red and white striped candy canes were first created around 1900.
In 1921, Brasher O. Westerfield invented a machine that could automatically produce candy canes. Previously, each cane was made by hand.
Over 1.7 billion candy canes are produced worldwide each year.
The traditional flavor of candy canes is peppermint, but they are also available in a variety of other flavors and colors.
Candy canes can also be used as toppings on desserts or as an extra in hot chocolate, such as a candy cane hot chocolate stirrer!
FAQ
1. What is the history of candy canes?
Candy canes have been around for centuries. The first recorded instance of candy canes was in 1670 in Cologne, Germany. The original candy canes were straight and white, but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that the red and white stripes became popular. The iconic hook shape of candy canes is said to represent a shepherd’s crook, symbolizing the shepherds who visited baby Jesus in the Christian nativity story.
2. How are candy canes made?
Candy canes start as a mixture of sugar, corn syrup, and water. The mixture is heated and then cooled to a precise temperature before being stretched and twisted into the iconic cane shape. The red stripes are added by mixing in food coloring, and the flavor can vary from classic peppermint to more unique flavors like cinnamon or even bacon.
3. How many candy canes are made each year?
It’s estimated that over 1.76 billion candy canes are made each year in the United States alone. That’s enough to stretch around the world 7 times!
4. What is the world’s largest candy cane?
The world’s largest candy cane was made in Switzerland in 2011 and measured 51 feet long and weighed over 900 pounds. It was made using 200 pounds of sugar and 55 pounds of food coloring!
5. How many calories are in a candy cane?
A typical candy cane contains around 50-60 calories. However, there are also mini candy canes that only contain around 10 calories each.
6. What is the Guinness World Record for the most candy canes made in one minute?
The Guinness World Record for the most candy canes made in one minute is 23, set by Travis Strnad in 2018. That’s almost 1 candy cane every 3 seconds!
7. Where are most candy canes sold?
Candy canes are most popular in the United States, where they are a staple during the holiday season. However, they are also popular in other countries like Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
8. What are some unique uses for candy canes?
Aside from being a delicious holiday treat, candy canes can be used in a variety of ways. Crushed candy canes can be added to hot chocolate or used as a topping for ice cream. They can also be used to make homemade peppermint bark or as a decoration for gingerbread houses. Some people even use candy canes as makeshift ornaments on their Christmas tree!
Zayn Anderson is a prolific writer with a passion for uncovering the world’s intriguing facts. Armed with an insatiable curiosity, he delves into various subjects, from history and science to nature and technology.