The Core Ingredients of Brach's Soft Peppermint Sticks
Unlike many other mint candies that use a base of sugar and corn syrup for a hard texture, Brach's soft peppermint sticks rely on a few key components to achieve their unique chewiness and melt-away quality. The ingredient list is surprisingly short and straightforward. By examining each component, we can better understand the recipe behind this classic confection.
Invert Sugar
Invert sugar is the foundation of the soft peppermint sticks. It is a sweetening agent made from sucrose that has been treated with an acid to split it into its two component sugars: glucose and fructose. This process prevents the sugar from crystallizing in the same way regular table sugar would, which is the secret to the candy's pliable, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Peppermint Oil
For the flavor, Brach's uses real peppermint oil. This provides the authentic, cool, and refreshing minty taste that is a hallmark of the candy. Unlike artificial flavorings, real peppermint oil delivers a more robust and natural profile, which is part of what makes the sticks so satisfying.
Red 40 and Red 40 Lake
To achieve the classic red color that often accompanies peppermint candies, the soft sticks contain two food color additives: Red 40 and Red 40 Lake. Red 40 is a water-soluble dye, while Red 40 Lake is an aluminum salt of the same dye, making it more stable for use in products with low moisture content. Together, they create the iconic visual of the peppermint candy.
Water
Although not always listed prominently, water is used in the manufacturing process and may be included in small quantities, often listed as "contains 2% or less of water". It is necessary for mixing the other ingredients to create the candy base before it is formed into its stick shape.
Comparison with Other Brach's Peppermint Products
It is important to differentiate between Brach's various peppermint offerings, as their ingredient lists vary significantly and can cause confusion. For instance, Brach's Star Brites are hard candies, and Brach's Crushed Candy Canes are designed for baking, and both have different formulations.
| Ingredient | Brach's Soft Peppermint Sticks | Brach's Star Brites Mints | Brach's Peppermint Crushed Candy Canes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweeteners | Invert Sugar, Water | Sugar, Corn Syrup | Sugar, Corn Syrup |
| Flavoring | Peppermint Oil | Peppermint Oil | Peppermint Oil, Artificial Flavor |
| Colorings | Red 40, Red 40 Lake | Red 40, Blue 1 | Red 40, Red 3, Blue 1, Yellow 6 |
| Other | - | - | Confectioner's Glaze (Shellac), Coconut Oil, Carnauba Wax, Beeswax |
As the table shows, the core components are tailored to the specific texture and use of each product. The invert sugar in the soft sticks is the main differentiating factor for texture, while the crushed candy canes contain additional coatings to prevent clumping during storage.
Allergen and Dietary Considerations
For those with dietary restrictions, Brach's soft peppermint sticks are a relatively safe choice. The official information states they are typically free of the most common allergens, including tree nuts, peanuts, and dairy. They are also generally considered gluten-free. The vegan status is more complex. The ingredients themselves are vegan, but sugar production sometimes involves bone char, an animal-derived product, though Brach's doesn't specify its sugar source. For the most up-to-date and specific allergen information, it is always best to check the product's packaging directly before consumption, especially for individuals with severe allergies.
The Journey from Ingredients to Candy
The manufacturing process of Brach's soft peppermint sticks starts by combining the invert sugar and water to form a syrupy base. This mixture is then cooked to a specific temperature to reach the ideal consistency. Once cooked, the real peppermint oil is added to infuse the candy with its flavor. The liquid candy is then cooled and kneaded, during which it is stretched and folded to incorporate air, which contributes to the soft texture. The vibrant red colorings, Red 40 and Red 40 Lake, are added at this stage to create the classic stripes. Finally, the peppermint mixture is extruded into its familiar stick shape and cooled completely before being cut and individually wrapped for sale. This careful process ensures that each stick is soft, flavorful, and visually appealing.
Conclusion
Brach's peppermint sticks owe their distinctive soft texture and fresh taste to a surprisingly simple and clean ingredient list. The use of invert sugar is crucial for the unique melt-away quality, while real peppermint oil delivers the authentic flavor. For those seeking a delicious, gluten-free, and generally allergen-friendly treat, these soft sticks remain a classic choice. It's always wise, however, to check the packaging of any specific Brach's peppermint product, as their different candies have unique formulations. Understanding what are the ingredients in Brach's peppermint sticks helps appreciate the straightforward recipe behind this nostalgic favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Brach's peppermint sticks soft? The primary reason for their softness is the use of invert sugar, a sweetening agent that prevents crystallization and gives the sticks their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Do Brach's peppermint sticks contain real peppermint? Yes, the sticks are flavored with real peppermint oil, which provides their authentic and refreshing mint flavor.
Are Brach's soft peppermint sticks gluten-free? Yes, according to product descriptions from retailers like QFC and other sources, the soft peppermint sticks are made without gluten-containing ingredients.
Are the soft peppermint sticks vegan? The ingredients in Brach's soft peppermint sticks are vegan-friendly. However, some strict vegans may be concerned about the processing of the sugar. Check the label for the most recent information.
What is the purpose of the Red 40 and Red 40 Lake food colorings? These food color additives are used to create the classic and vibrant red stripes on the peppermint sticks.
Is invert sugar a natural or artificial ingredient? Invert sugar is a natural sweetener derived from sucrose (table sugar) through a heating process. It is not considered an artificial ingredient.
How do Brach's soft peppermint sticks differ from Brach's Star Brites? The main difference is the texture due to the sugar base; soft peppermint sticks use invert sugar, while Star Brites are hard candies made with a combination of sugar and corn syrup.
