Wisconsin Fairy Food (Angel Food Candy)
An airy, caramel-like candy with a chocolate-dipped finish
If you’ve never heard of Wisconsin Fairy Food, you’re not alone. Also known as Angel Food Candy, this unique sweet treat is especially popular in Wisconsin and is often made around the holidays. A Midwestern friend mentioned it in passing, and its mysterious description immediately caught my attention. After trying it, I can say it’s truly one of a kind.
Fairy Food is light, airy, and crisp, with a deep toffee or caramel flavor—almost like honeycomb candy, but richer. While the candy itself is delicious, most traditional versions dip it in chocolate, a step that truly completes the experience and should absolutely not be skipped.
A Little History Behind Fairy Food
Fairy Food has long been a regional favorite in parts of the Midwest, particularly Wisconsin. Similar candies exist around the world—such as sponge toffee in Canada or hokey pokey in New Zealand—but Fairy Food has its own identity tied to family traditions and holiday candy-making. Its simple ingredients and dramatic transformation during cooking make it a favorite homemade confection passed down through generations.
Why You’ll Love Wisconsin Fairy Food
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Light and airy texture
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Rich caramelized flavor
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Only a few simple ingredients
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Perfect for holidays and gifting
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Chocolate-dipped for extra indulgence
Ingredients
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1 cup dark corn syrup
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon white vinegar
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1 tablespoon baking soda
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10–15 oz chocolate candy coating
How to Make Wisconsin Fairy Food
Step 1 – Prepare the Pan
Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2 – Cook the Sugar Mixture
Add the corn syrup, sugar, and vinegar to a medium saucepan. Stir briefly to combine, then place over medium-high heat.
Do not stir once heating begins.
Cook until the mixture reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
Step 3 – Create the Airy Texture
Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the baking soda. The mixture will rapidly expand and become light and foamy—this is exactly what you want.
Step 4 – Cool and Set
Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Allow it to spread naturally—do not press or smooth it out.
Let the candy cool completely and harden.
Step 5 – Break Into Pieces
Once fully cooled, break the candy into small, bite-sized pieces.
Step 6 – Dip in Chocolate
Place the chocolate candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until fully melted.
Dip each piece of candy into the melted chocolate and place back onto parchment paper to set.
Step 7 – Store
Once the chocolate has fully hardened, store Fairy Food in an airtight container.
Cooking Method & Candy Formation
The magic of Fairy Food happens when baking soda is added to the extremely hot sugar mixture. The reaction releases carbon dioxide, creating thousands of tiny air bubbles that give the candy its signature airy, crisp texture. Letting the candy cool undisturbed preserves this delicate structure.
Tips for Success
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Use a candy thermometer for accuracy
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Do not stir while the sugar mixture cooks
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Work quickly after adding baking soda
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Avoid humid conditions when making candy
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Always dip in chocolate—it balances the sweetness perfectly
Variations & Serving Ideas
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Milk or dark chocolate: Both work beautifully
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Sprinkle with sea salt: For sweet-salty contrast
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Holiday gifting: Package in clear bags or tins
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Crushed topping: Use over ice cream or desserts
Who Will Love This Candy?
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Candy makers and holiday bakers
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Fans of honeycomb or sponge toffee
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Chocolate lovers
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Midwest food tradition enthusiasts
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Anyone who enjoys light, crunchy sweets
Storage & Shelf Life
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature
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Keeps well for 2–3 weeks if properly sealed
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Avoid refrigeration to prevent moisture buildup
Conclusion
Wisconsin Fairy Food is one of those delightful regional treats that deserves wider recognition. Light, crunchy, caramelized, and chocolate-coated, it’s a candy that feels both nostalgic and magical. Whether you’re making it for the holidays, gifting it to friends, or simply trying something new, this airy confection is guaranteed to surprise and delight.
