Testing the Stages of Sugar Boiling

Sugar syrups go through various stages. Temperature is one indication of the stage of the syrup, but testing its consistency is a more reliable measure.

Mercury candy thermometers measure the temperature in Fahrenheit degrees. You should first test to determine the accuracy of the thermometer because the syrup’s stage must be precisely correct for some products. To test your thermometer, bring some water to a boil and plunge your thermometer into it; it should read 212 degrees. If it does not, adjust or compensate for it. Don’t forget to read the temperature at eye level. Before using the candy thermometer, place it in a glass of warm water. This prevents the shock resulting from plunging a cold thermometer into hot liquid and reduces the risk of breakage. It also gives you a reading of your mixture’s temperature more quickly.