Kentucky is known for its love of cream candy, a sweet treat that has been enjoyed by locals for nearly a century. The history of this beloved candy can be traced back to the early 1920s, when two separate businesses were created by women who had a passion for making candy.
The first business, Rebecca-Ruth Candy, was founded by Rebecca Gooch and Ruth Booe in 1919. These two enterprising women began making candy in their home kitchen and soon gained a reputation for their delicious cream candy. Encouraged by family and friends, they decided to start selling their treats, and thus Rebecca-Ruth Candy was born. Their cream candy quickly became a favorite among Kentuckians, and their business grew steadily over the years.
The second business, Ruth Hunt Candies, was established by Ruth Tharpe Hunt in 1921. Ruth had also been making candy in her home and, like Rebecca and Ruth, her creations were met with great enthusiasm by those who tasted them. Inspired by the success of Rebecca-Ruth Candy, Ruth Hunt decided to turn her candy-making hobby into a business. She opened a small candy shop in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, and began selling her cream candy to locals. The demand for her candies grew rapidly, and she soon expanded her business to include mail-order sales.
Both Rebecca-Ruth Candy and Ruth Hunt Candies became renowned for their cream candy, which was made using a unique and closely guarded recipe. This cream candy is characterized by its smooth and creamy texture, melt-in-your-mouth consistency, and rich, indulgent flavor. The candy is typically made by combining sugar, cream, and other ingredients, and then cooking the mixture to a precise temperature. The resulting candy is soft, sweet, and incredibly delicious.
Cream candy has become a beloved tradition in Kentucky, with locals and visitors alike enjoying this sweet treat. It is often given as gifts during holidays and special occasions, and many Kentuckians have fond memories of enjoying cream candy with their families and friends. The popularity of cream candy has even spread beyond Kentucky, with both Rebecca-Ruth Candy and Ruth Hunt Candies shipping their treats to customers across the country.
Kentucky is known for its love of cream candy, a delightful sweet treat that has been enjoyed by locals for nearly a century. The passion and skill of women like Rebecca Gooch, Ruth Booe, and Ruth Tharpe Hunt have shaped the candy-making industry in Kentucky and created a tradition that continues to be cherished today. So, if you ever find yourself in the Bluegrass State, be sure to indulge in some delicious Kentucky cream candy.