Dried Candy Cap Mushrooms
Discover one of the pastry kitchen’s most distinctive specialty mushrooms. When dried, candy caps develop a concentrated maple-like aroma with warm butterscotch and forest notes. Chefs use them as an aromatic ingredient in ice cream, cookies, cakes, custards, panna cotta and select savory preparations.
Why chefs choose candy caps
- Distinctive maple-like aroma that becomes more pronounced when dried
- Whole dried pieces ready for grinding or infusion
- Two sizes for pastry kitchens, restaurants and foodservice
How to use dried candy cap mushrooms
For baking, grind the dried mushrooms to a fine powder and add a small amount to cookie, cake, pancake or pastry recipes. For ice cream, custard, crème brûlée or panna cotta, gently infuse them in warm milk or cream, then strain. Candy caps are highly aromatic, so begin with a small amount and adjust to taste. Cook before eating.
Flavor pairings
Maple, caramel, brown butter, vanilla, pecans, walnuts, chocolate, coffee, apple, pear, pumpkin and winter squash.
Available sizes
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3 oz (85 g) — ideal for home cooks, pastry testing and smaller kitchens
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1 lb (16 oz / 454 g) — designed for chefs, bakeries, restaurants and foodservice
Storage
Keep tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct light and moisture. Because their aroma is powerful, store separately from other dried mushrooms and spices.
Frequently asked questions
What do candy cap mushrooms taste and smell like?
Dried candy caps are prized for a concentrated maple-like aroma with warm butterscotch and subtly earthy notes.
Can I use candy cap mushrooms in ice cream and cookies?
Yes. Grind them for cookies and cakes, or infuse warm milk or cream for ice cream, custards and crème brûlée.
Do I need to rehydrate them?
Not always. Grind dried candy caps directly for cooked or baked recipes, or steep them in warm liquid for an infusion. If rehydrating for chopped use, soak in warm liquid until tender, drain and cook.
Which size should I choose?
The 3 oz size is ideal for recipe development and smaller kitchens. The 1 lb size is intended for chefs, bakeries, restaurants and foodservice.
