Scottish Tablet Recipe – Traditional Homemade Scottish Candy

Looking for an authentic Scottish dessert that melts in your mouth? This Scottish Tablet recipe is a rich, creamy, and buttery candy made with simple pantry ingredients. Whether you’re preparing it for the holidays or just craving something sweet, this old-fashioned treat is a must-try!

Ingredients

4 ½ cups granulated white sugar
1 cup whole milk
1 (14 oz / 397 g) can sweetened condensed milk
6 tablespoons salted butter

Optional for flavor variations:

1 teaspoon vanilla extract or
1 tablespoon whiskey

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Pan

Grease and line a 9”x13” baking dish (or use a smaller pan for thicker pieces).

2. Melt Initial Ingredients

In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine sugar, milk, and butter.
Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until butter is melted and sugar begins dissolving.

3. Cook on the Stove

Pour mixture into a deep saucepan or stockpot over medium-high heat.
Stir occasionally and bring to a gentle boil.
Add condensed milk, reduce heat to medium, and continue stirring.
The mixture will rise rapidly — ensure your pot is deep enough!

4. Simmer Until Caramelized

Simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning.
Once the mixture thickens and turns a caramel color, remove from heat.
The temperature should reach 240–248°F (115–120°C) on a candy thermometer.
Soft ball test: Drop a bit into cold water — it should form a soft ball.

5. Flavor & Beat the Mixture

Optional: Stir in vanilla extract or whiskey now for extra flavor.
Beat mixture using a hand mixer for 8–10 minutes until it thickens noticeably.
Alternative: Use a wooden spoon if no mixer is available (takes a bit longer).
Stop beating when the mixture leaves trails.

6. Set the Tablet

Pour into prepared pan and avoid touching the top surface.
Lightly tap the pan to spread the mixture evenly.
After 10 minutes, score the surface into squares for easy cutting later.
Allow to set fully for 2–4 hours, or ideally overnight, before cutting.

Tips for Success

Always use a deep pot — the mixture bubbles up quickly.
Stir frequently to avoid burning or sticking.
Add whiskey or vanilla for a flavor twist that stays true to Scottish traditions.
Cut the tablet once fully cooled for clean, sharp edges.

What Is Scottish Tablet?

Scottish Tablet is a classic sweet from Scotland, known for its crumbly texture and rich buttery-caramel flavor. Unlike fudge, it’s more firm yet still melts in your mouth, making it perfect for gifting or serving with tea.

For more details, visit the full recipe

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