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Service Man Candy
Service Man Candy is a rich, chewy, old-fashioned candy made with sugar, corn syrup, butter, and sweetened condensed milk, finished with coconut and nuts for texture. It gets its name from its association with care packages for servicemen, where durable, high-energy treats like this were common. With a glossy caramel-like base and a chewy bite, it strikes a nostalgic chord for anyone who remembers wartime or Depression-era confections. This recipe reflects the era’s need for simple, shelf-stable sweets that traveled well and brought joy across the miles.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Course Candy
Cuisine American
Servings 60 candies
Calories 162 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups light corn syrup
  • 13 oz sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ lb butter ( or margarine)
  • 1 cup nuts (chopped, e.g., pecans or walnuts)
  • 1 cup coconut (shredded )

Instructions
 

Step 1: Combine Base

  • In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, and condensed milk.

Step 2: Heat & Cook

  • Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Lower heat and continue cooking until mixture reaches the firm ball stage (245–250°F), stirring regularly to prevent scorching.

Step 3: Watch for Thickening

  • Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pot.

Step 4: Add Flavor & Texture

  • Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract, chopped nuts, and shredded coconut.

Step 5: Pour & Cool

  • Pour mixture into a greased 9x13-inch pan or similar dish. Smooth the top. Let cool completely at room temperature.

Step 6: Cut & Serve

  • Once firm, cut into bite-sized pieces and serve or wrap in wax paper for storage.

Tips

  • Stir constantly to prevent scorching once the mixture thickens
  • Use a candy thermometer for precision if desired (soft-ball stage)
  • Substitute margarine with butter for richer flavor
  • Toast the nuts lightly before adding for extra depth
  • Line the pan with wax paper for easier removal
  • Cut candy while slightly warm for cleaner edges
  • Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness
  • Swap coconut for additional nuts if preferred

Nutrition

Calories: 162kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 1gFat: 2gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 2mgSodium: 43mgPotassium: 44mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 34gVitamin A: 17IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 29mgIron: 0.2mg
Keyword holiday treat, homemade sweets, nostalgic dessert, old-fashioned recipe, stovetop candy, vintage candy
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