Candy Caps
Candy Cap Mushrooms
Candy Cap mushrooms are mushrooms in the milk cap genus Lactarius. They are small, orange mushrooms that can be found on or near rotting wood, and soil. There are multiple species that have the characteristic maple scent when dried. Lactarius rubidus is known from Baja to BC.
New Lesson: Candy Caps
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Key Characteristics:
Milky Latex Juice – this species has ‘milk’ that is more translucent white, rather than opaque white
Color – Orange cap and stem
Shape – Cap is a rounded bumpy similar to an orange peel. It is not viscid, or slimy when wet.
Stem – The stem is brittle. The entire Lactarius genus has brittle tissue. They are closely related to the Russulas which are also known for brittle tissue. The stem is described as being hollow but this could be difficult to notice.
Scent
Fresh: Fresh candy caps also have a unique scent but are different from the maple syrup scent of dried candy caps. The scent is difficult to place but might be comparable to fenugreek
Dried: When dried they have a sweet, maple syrup or brown sugar scent
Habitat – The photos below were found in an urban park consisting of most of the common trees in the Puget Sound area. These were under Douglas fir, big leaf maple, and brambles.
Similar – There are many similar-looking species. There are multiple species of orange lactarius, that have milky white latex juice. Some can have an intensely spicy or bitter taste. When wet the caps for similar-looking species may be slimy or viscid. Some have opaque white milk rather than the more translucent, watery white milk of candy caps.
Candy cap mushrooms are known for their unique maple syrup-like aroma and are a popular ingredient in various sweet and savory dishes. Here are some popular methods for preparing them:
If you are confident that the mushroom is a lactarius but unsure if it is a candy cap, try the nibble and spit test to check that it has a mild taste and not strongly bitter or peppery. One only needs to chew for a couple seconds at the front of the mouth and then spit.
more on the Nibble and Spit test
Selected Methods of Preparation
Ice Cream: Infuse cream with dried candy cap mushrooms to create a uniquely flavored ice cream that highlights their sweet, maple-like essence.
Cookies: Add ground candy cap mushrooms to cookie dough to impart a subtle maple flavor, enhancing traditional cookie recipes.
Syrups: Simmer dried candy cap mushrooms in water and sugar to craft a syrup that can sweeten and flavor pancakes, waffles, or desserts.
Custards and Puddings: Steep candy cap mushrooms in dairy to infuse custards, flans, or puddings with their distinctive flavor.
Baked Goods: Incorporate ground candy cap mushrooms into batters for cakes, muffins, or scones to add a unique twist to classic baked items.
Caramels: Mix candy cap mushroom powder into caramel recipes to enhance the confection with a rich, maple-like depth.
Waffles and Pancakes: Add ground candy cap mushrooms to waffle or pancake batter for a naturally sweet, aromatic flavor.
Cupcakes: Infuse cupcake batter and frosting with candy cap mushroom syrup to create moist, flavorful treats.
Marshmallows: Incorporate candy cap mushroom powder into marshmallow mixtures for a sweet, earthy twist on the classic confection.
Savory Dishes: Use candy cap mushrooms to add a subtle sweetness to savory dishes like stuffings or glazes for roasted vegetables.
Remember, candy cap mushrooms have a very strong flavor, so a little goes a long way. It’s important to adjust the quantity used based on the intensity of flavor you desire.
Note: Be confident of the identity of a mushroom before eating it. Even classically edible mushrooms can cause negative reactions for some. Avoid eating Lactarius mushrooms that have a strong bitter or spicy taste.
