Stretchy malt sugar candy with golden, chewy sweetness is a traditional Chinese confection. A nostalgic family treat with natural malt flavor.
Grease a 9-inch loaf pan or baking sheet generously with neutral vegetable oil and set aside.
In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine maltose syrup, white sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves completely.
Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a steady boil. Do not stir; allow it to cook until it reaches 260°F (hard ball stage) on a candy thermometer, about 15–20 minutes.
Carefully pour the hot syrup into the prepared pan. Let it cool until just warm to the touch but still pliable (about 15–20 minutes).
Using greased hands, pull and stretch the warm candy repeatedly until it turns opaque and develops a pearl-like sheen. Shape into ropes or twists, and cut into pieces once fully cooled and set.