A lollipop primarily refers to a type of candy that is basically hard candy mounted on a stick. The presence of the stick makes it easier to hold and enjoy. It is a sweet treat that comes in diverse flavors, shapes, and sizes, therefore targeting a wide expanse of taste buds. From basic cherry flavor to a colorful multi-swirl, this candy surprises everyone.
Whether it’s a Tootsie Pop, a cola-flavored lollipop, or a Charms Blow Pop, National Lollipop Day gives you an excuse to indulge in many treats. Kids especially love this day since they enjoy the colorful lollipops of all shapes and sizes that are seen in any store display.
Lollipops find a special place in pop culture too, with songs like ‘The Lollipop Song‘ by The Chordettes being the most fitting one for the occasion. Share the fun history of lollipops with friends and family, and recall light-hearted mottoes: if all else fails, put a stick in it!
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Why is it Called a Lollipop?
The term “lollipop” does have an interesting history of the word. It is believed that the name derived from the term “lolly,” which in the English dialect means tongue, and the word “pop,” which suggests something that goes “pop.”
Several historians find its roots early in the 20th century when George Smith, a New Haven, Connecticut, confectioner, named his candy on a stick after his favorite racehorse, Lolly Pop. Stuck, and eventually the name “lollipop” became the more universally accepted name given to this confectionery treat.
National Lollipop Day History
National Lollipop Day is observed on July 20 of every year. This sweet day recognizes lollipop invention and the time you spend licking them. Though its original date of establishment is not known, it has turned out to be one in which candy lovers give in to their sweet tooth by indulging in the sweet treat. Many confectioneries and candy shops have special deals, free lollipops, and other themed events to mark the day.
Is it Lolly Pop or Lollipop?
There often arises confusion between “lolly pop” and “lollipop.” The correct spelling is “lollipop.” Despite variations in regional dialects and spellings, “lollipop” is the standardized term used globally to refer to this candy on a stick.
Is Lollipop a Type of Candy?
Yes, the lollipop does qualify as candy. It is in the class of confectionery foods and enjoys especial favor for its fun, portable, and easy-to-chomp form. Lollipops are enjoyed by people of all ages and remain a staple at parties, carnivals, and just as a sweet treat from yesteryear.
Let’s make a delicious lollipop candy at home with out simple and easy recipe:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon flavoring extract (such as vanilla, cherry, or peppermint)
- Food coloring (optional)
- Lollipop sticks
- Candy thermometer
- Lollipop molds or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Homemade Lollipop Recipe:
- Prepare the Molds: Lightly grease the molds with a non-stick spray in case you are using molds for lollipops. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lay down, spacing evenly apart, the lollipop sticks.
- Combine Ingredients: Combine in a medium saucepan sugar, corn syrup, and water. Over medium heat, mix until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Boil the Mixture: Attach the candy thermometer inside the mixture and do not stir it. Allow it to boil until it reaches 300°F, the hard crack stage. It may take approximately 10-15 minutes.
- Add Flavor and Color: When the mixture reaches 300°F, remove the saucepan from the heat. At this point, you can add any flavoring extract and a few drops of food coloring if desired. Stir gently.
- Pour into Molds: Carefully pour the hot mixture into the ready lollipop molds or onto the parchment paper. Be sure to cover each end of the lollipop sticks completely.
Making Lollipops at home, Image Source: The Spruce Eats - Cool and Set: Allow cooling and hardening completely. Although this should take about 20-30 minutes.
- Remove and Enjoy: When the lollipops have set, carefully remove them from the molds or parchment paper. Now, enjoy your homemade lollipops!
Tips:
- Be cautious when working with hot sugar syrup to avoid burns.
- Experiment with different flavors and colors to create a variety of lollipops.
- Store lollipops in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
National Lollipop Day Facts
- Origins: The lollipop’s origins can be traced back to ancient times when people enjoyed honey on a stick.
- Mass Production: The modern lollipop as we know it was popularized in the early 1900s with the advent of automated candy-making machines.
- Variety: There are countless flavors of lollipops, ranging from traditional fruit flavors to exotic and unusual tastes like bacon or chili.
- Record Holder: The world’s largest lollipop, created by See’s Candies, weighed a whopping 7,003 pounds and was certified by Guinness World Records in 2012.
American Flag Shape Lollipop, Image Source: Orintal Trading
Explore National Lollipop Day Ideas
- Lollipop Tasting Party: Hold a taste-testing party with all different lollipop flavors. Let the guests score their faves and drive them to try new ones.
- DIY Lollipop Making: Unfold your creativity and get on to making lollipops at home. Experiment with unique flavors and shapes.
- Lollipop Crafts: Create amusing and colorful crafts using lollipops; suitable for kids as well as adults.
- Social Media Challenge: Share some of your favorite lollipop moments on social media with the hashtag #NationalLollipopDay.
- Lollipop Gifts: Surprise your beloved one with a lollipop theme gift or even just a bouquet of lollipops.
National Lollipop Day Quotes
- “Life is like a lollipop. It’s meant to be savored slowly and enjoyed thoroughly.”
- “You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy a lollipop, and that’s kind of the same thing.”
- “Lollipops are proof that life is full of sweet surprises.”
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed to make homemade lollipops?
You will need granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, flavoring extract, food coloring (optional), lollipop sticks, a candy thermometer, and lollipop molds or parchment paper.
How long does the mixture usually take to reach a temperature of 300°F?
This will take about 10-15 minutes on average.
How and when do I add flavoring and food color?
Flavoring extract and food coloring should be added after taking the saucepan off the heat once the mixture has reached 300°F.
How can I pour the hot mixture into molds?
Pour the hot mixture into the prepared molds for lollipops or onto the parchment paper, and then making sure each stick is covered.
How long will it take for the lollipops to cool and set?
The lollipops are going to cool and harden within 20-30 minutes.
How do I take out the lollipops from the molds?
Allow them to set completely before taking them out of their molds or the parchment paper.
Are there any precautions that I should take?
yes, handle the hot sugar syrup with caution to avoid burns. Check the temperature by placing a candy thermometer.
Can I try different flavors and colors?
Yes, you can try with different flavoring extracts and food coloring to make the varities of colorful lollipops.
How do I store homemade lollipops?
Store lollipops in an airtight container.
Can I make lollipops without molds?
Yes, you can. On a parchment paper-lined baking sheet, just space the lollipop sticks evenly apart.
